"Cloud computing" or "cloud storage" sounds like a very technical concept at first glance, but it should be noted that it has taken off within the current landscape of new technologies and in the business world. Let's explain what it is and how it can benefit companies.
First, what is the cloud?
It is the space that allows you to store and access millions of data and programs in real time through various Internet services. Like having remote access to softwares, file storage and data processing.
Cloud Features:
- Companies can increase or decrease resources depending on demand. Storage quantity is procured only if necessary.
- You pay only for the resources you use.
- Cloud system providers deploy resources that ensure a more resilient service to failures and/or intrusions...
- Methods are provided to migrate data and services between different cloud storage software, automatically or manually by the user.
And how does it benefit my business?
According to the Harvard Business Review study, 56% of companies already use two or three cloud application platforms. These companies have managed to benefit in terms of:
- Flexibility: The information can be accessed very easily without the need to have a large infrastructure. Also, it is adaptable to changing needs when expanding or reducing operations.
- Cost reduction: It is not necessary to consult an IT professional to install a system or equipment. Because of that, the costs are very low since there are free services or with a low monthly payment. And, it is not necessary to have a large storage capacity.
- Security: Protecting your data and systems is an important part of your business productivity. In case of unforeseen events or crisis, having your data stored in the cloud helps to have a backup of them, without loss of recorded information.
- Time: Work faster than with traditional methods.
- Multiplatform: You will be able to access information remotely, from any device with Internet access. On the other hand, this feature boosts remote work, since employees only need Internet access to work from anywhere.
- Collaboration: Whether you're working on a peculiar project or in different locations, the cloud allows you to give employees, consultants and others access to the same files; encouraging teamwork remotely.
- Frees up the hardware: As the software is now cloud-based, it is up to the vendor to ensure a seamless process and provide the latest versions of updates.
"The global cloud infrastructure services market grew 32% year-over-year in the last quarter of 2020 and 10% year-over-year."
- Celia Valdeolmillos from MuyComputerPro
And why migrate my business to the cloud? Let's discuss a success story with The New York Times, a well-known American newspaper...The Times needed to convert 11 million articles and images from its archive (from 1851 to 1980) to PDF format. The company's IT department estimated that the project would take about seven weeks; instead, a developer using 100 instances of Amazon EC2, managed to complete the job in 24 hours!
Ana Perez, Commercial Manager of Jootser Technologies states that:
"If I had to choose between everything, it's honestly being able to have my information in real time. If you record all the information in the system, you don't have to wait until the end of the month to know if the result was profit or loss. Having the information in real time allows you to make decisions in time that can have a big impact on the company's results.
Both cases gained in common a key factor that benefits us the cloud, the time factor. And, on the other hand, Jootser Technologies uses the cloud of InterFuerza, integrated business management software to facilitate the financial and business processes of small and medium enterprises.
But, before proceeding to apply the cloud in our business we must understand what type of cloud fits your needs...
Cloud Types
Public Cloud
It offers its services to any internet user. The cloud provider is responsible for maintenance and security, and the customer generally only pays for the storage space they consume. Several companies make use of this cloud simultaneously.
Private Cloud
It provides its services to a limited number of users through a company's network. It is used if a company requires its own cloud servers and software without giving public access.
Hybrid Cloud
As its name suggests, it is the combination of the two types of cloud mentioned above. In the hybrid cloud, data is stored in public or private clouds, based on needs. For example, sensitive or confidential information can be stored in the private cloud and less important information in the public cloud, or use the public cloud when you need external users to share information.
Now that we have more clarity on the types of cloud computing that exist, we must finally understand the services that exist within the cloud.
These services can be grouped into 3 main groups:
- IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) or Infrastructure as a Service
It provides the ability to leverage the server's raw resources while the rest of the platform and software management is the responsibility of the company. IaaS is ideal for developers, who can choose Operating System, amount of storage and other possibilities thanks to the total transparency of the service.
Examples of IaaS: Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services and Tigo Panama's Data Center.
- PaaS(Platform as a Service) or Platform as a Service
It gives the freedom to develop custom software applications, as well as their maintenance and management. In other words, it provides everything you need to complete the lifecycle and deployment of such applications or web services.
Example of Paas: Google App Engine, where developers can create their applications in Java or Python.
- SaaS(Software as a Service) or Software as a Service
Facilitates access to the software application either through a browser or a program. The client will use the system hosted by the company, which will maintain the client's information in its systems and provide the necessary resources to exploit that information.
Example of SaaS: InterFuerza, SMB software for inventory, financials, portfolio, and sales management.
To conclude, unlike traditional computing (which stores data locally), cloud computing allows access to information at any time via the Internet, without taking up space on the hard drive of the user's device.
As Gartner predictions show, by 2025, 80% of companies will have migrated their data and services from their data centres to the cloud.
With InterFuerzayou will be able to access your company's information in real time, since it will be a fundamental tool for decision making. You will be able to see in advance which of your projects will be feasible through the analysis of your current capital, bank reconciliations, product inventory, status of your current and potential customers, and much more...
