We live in the age of information, and it comes down to how we utilize that knowledge. When misused, it can cause a negative impact; however, when we use it correctly, it can mean the difference between success and failure.
As we continue to gain more knowledge, we are also developing new ways to share this information.
When cloud technology was introduced, it completely changed our way of thinking.
Most commonly referred to as “The Cloud,” cloud computing is how we can store and share information.
We no longer require a physical method to transfer data from one device to another and then deliver it to another person.
With the Cloud, you’re able to share directly from devices such as your computer, tablet, or phone for the purpose of storage with the ability to permit another person to download to their device of choice.
The Mysterious Cloud
In laymen’s terms, The Cloud is merely a virtual storage space on the internet. It is most commonly used to store digital resources, including applications, files, and anything you would typically share via a flash drive or disk.
The Cloud is not the internet, although the internet, many times powered by satellite networks, is the vehicle that allows people to share information without the restriction of a second device or requirement of a specific physical location.
How Does the Cloud Help Me?
People refer to the “The Cloud” in the same way they reference “Google” as an actual term. There are many advantages to using virtual space, and we’ve outlined some of the most popular benefits below:
Better Storage
Storage solutions previously used had capacity limitations that required constant upgrades, memory increases, or dividing data over multiple devices. It could be frustrating, primarily if you frequently work with large files.
Ability to Scale Up or Down
Your company may have varying bandwidth demands. CIOs call this “operational agility” and appreciate this flexibility based on the business needs at a particular time (i.e., some companies experience “seasons” in an industry where they are busier at a specific time of year).
Seamless Collaboration with Remote Users
With the increased amount of people working in a remote environment, using The Cloud as a tool allows team members to share digital resources from anywhere around the globe easily.
The ability to easily access the necessary files from multiple devices is what keeps companies moving forward.
It Won’t Break the Bank
Since you do not need the additional hardware to store and share information, you can reduce company expenses.
The ability to scale as required will allow you to budget appropriately.
Many businesses use the savings to continue to research other technologies that help lead to success. For smaller companies, hardware can become expensive, and they appreciate the pay-as-you-go opportunity while receiving the benefits of virtual storage.
Backup and Recovery Peace of Mind
Many businesses have protocols to protect data in the event of a disaster. In the “old days,” this could be extremely expensive. However, with The Cloud, you can perform systematic back-ups and have recovery solutions in place to easily retrieve information that may have normally been lost.
In summary, The Cloud may still be a bit of a mystery but think of it as a cost-effective tool that will make your life easier while allowing collaboration with your team, clients, and others who rely on sharing data.