7 Tips to Help You Get the Most Out of Your Cloud Computing
How many cloud-based services does the average person use each day?
A jaw-dropping 36.
And believe it or not, research shows more than 80 percent of all enterprises have a multi-cloud strategy or are preparing one.
That’s no surprise. Cloud computing offers businesses a number of key advantages:
- Save money on purchasing and maintaining hardware
- Flexibility to access software and data from any online device
- Files will be backed up online for efficient disaster recovery
- Scale your cloud computing to match company growth
- Improve data security with the latest safeguards
But switching to cloud computing can still be a daunting process if you’re new to the concept, and you may be unsure how to get the most out of it.
These seven simple tips will help you get started.
Understand your requirements to get the right package
Take care when setting up your cloud computing service. You don’t want to pay for more data storage and applications than you actually need.
One of the best aspects of cloud computing, particularly for small businesses, is that you can cut tech-related expenses significantly. Choosing a package that includes software and storage capacities beyond your immediate needs could eat into those savings.
Work with a cloud computing service provider that will take the time to understand your company, your needs, and your goals. They will recommend the ideal setup at a realistic price.
Do your research
To follow on from the previous tip, take care to research any prospective cloud computing service provider you consider before you sign up.
Don’t rush into a binding agreement with the first company you stumble upon. Yes, their prices might be irresistible but what about the quality of their service? What about their security measures?
Dig into their history, their reputation, and their range of services. Trustworthy providers will be happy to answer your questions and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
Manage access authorization to control who sees what
Just as you wouldn’t give every employee a key to every locked door in your business, you shouldn’t provide your entire workforce with access to sensitive data stored in the cloud. (At least, that’s the case for most companies.)
Look into the access controls available within your cloud infrastructure to minimize the risk of employees delving into valuable financial or client information they don’t need to see.
Why?
One reason is potential data leaks, both accidental and malicious. For example, a team-member leaving on unpleasant terms could copy precious data and release it. This might work to competitors’ advantage and damage your reputation for years to come.
Another possibility is deletion. An employee could unintentionally remove a file or folder from your cloud storage permanently. And again: accidents happen, but it could be a malicious move to sabotage your operations.
Make sure only the right people have access to the files they need. Speak to your provider about your options.
Implement the best security available to avoid breaches
Cybersecurity is paramount for companies of all sizes. Sadly, 60 percent of small businesses are forced to close within six months of falling prey to hackers.
Fortunately, cloud services implement cutting-edge security measures to protect your data and substantially reduce the risk of a breach. Consider this a crucial factor when planning to switch to cloud computing for the first time, or when looking for a new service provider.
Explore the encryption, disaster recovery process, and other security-related measures available before you sign on the dotted line.
Provide staff with detailed training
Employees can struggle with the transition to cloud computing when they’ve used traditional setups for years. They’ll be familiar with loading software installed on their computer and storing files on hardware. Operating in the cloud could push them out of their comfort zone and threaten to disrupt their productivity.
That’s why it’s so important to organize training for your workforce. Provide them with the guidance they need to acclimate to cloud computing quickly and maintain their productivity.
Make sure your provider is readily available in emergencies
Speak to your cloud computing provider about their responsiveness. In an emergency, you want to feel reassured that the experts are just a call away. Heck, they should even be working on a solution by the time you report problems.
Ask about the provider’s availability round the clock, their approach to monitoring service quality, their average response time, and what their plan is in the event of downtime. This is vital: any hour that your workforce can’t complete tasks as usual is an hour of potential lost revenue. And unsatisfied clients could develop real doubts about your business within that time.
Explore new opportunities to streamline your operations
Cloud computing brings you a wealth of new ways to transform your current processes, discover fresh working methods, and facilitate better collaboration between employees.
First and foremost, cloud computing creates greater flexibility in working habits. Employees may login from home and work just as they would in the office (which has proven essential during the pandemic crisis). This can help you cut overheads and cultivate a more satisfied workforce.
Secondly, consider your current method of assigning tasks and distributing information to employees. Still relying on email?
Take advantage of the latest project management software to build a faster, more connected operation. Employees can see who’s working on what at any time. Tasks may be updated, assigned, an tracked with clear visibility.
That’s why project management software is used for 77 percent of high-performing projects. And this is just one benefit of switching to cloud computing — ask your chosen provider for more advice on choosing the best solutions!
Cloud computing could make a huge impact on your business’s efficiency, productivity, and overall performance.
GenX Solutions offers companies like yours a customized path to switching your infrastructure to the cloud in a simple, cost-effective way.
How can we help you? Get in touch to find out more!