IT and communications infrastructure are critical to SME’s successful running of day to day business. Cloud computing can help businesses streamline processes, reduce IT expenditure and maintain business continuity, even with remote working. As over 85% of businesses worldwide already make use of cloud technology to store data (reference article), cloud computing is more than a trend, and businesses not utilising the cloud may fall behind.
Here at PureComms, we help SMEs achieve effective telecommunications for their business, tailoring solutions to their individual requirements. We’ve put together this guide to the cloud to help businesses find their perfect IT solution.
If you would like expert consultancy and services to improve your business’s communication and connectivity, get in touch with one of our friendly team today!
What is the Cloud?
The cloud is often demonstrated and illustrated as the physical clouds seen in the sky. This is a fitting comparison as cloud computing and technologies have no real home, hosting information, data, application, servers and more virtually. Therefore, when referring to ‘the cloud’, one is referring to the virtualised servers stored on the internet.
Using on-ground servers for data retrieval, cloud technologies are otherwise untethered and consequently infinitely scalable, uninhibited by restrictions of traditional hardware storage.
How Can SMEs Use the Cloud?
The cloud offers SMEs a variety of services useful for business, some of which may already be used, such as file sharing and synching, email applications, ERP systems, data storage and phones.
- Data Storage – Businesses can use the cloud to store data, including file, object and block type. By using cloud storage, SMEs can reduce their reliance on their on-premise servers, and consequently speed up their existing hardware. Cloud storage is also important for remote working, as this allows files and documents to be shared instantaneously between locations and collaborated on from anywhere in the world.
- Phone Systems – Modern phone systems use the internet to connect extensions, known as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), and allow for complex abilities. Cloud-based telephone systems use the same components as traditional systems and still require equipment investment and user training, however the overall cost is considerably less. This gives SMEs the chance to improve their communication system without huge investment and complex installations.
- Hybrid Cloud – Usual for SMEs with centralised premises who do not have global demand on their data sharing, the hybrid cloud can alleviate storage demands on on-prem infrastructure and utilise the public cloud for additional storage, all without compromising security and protection. To reduce security fears, businesses can utilise the public cloud for storage of non-sensitive tasks but keep business-critical data on the on-prem hardware protected by the business’ firewall. A hybrid cloud solution is extremely useful for SMEs who deal with random or sporadic spikes in demand for storage space but cannot warrant investment in further hardware to cope.
- Working From Home – Remote access and fast data retrieval are vital for business continuity, especially when businesses may be spread across regions, not offices. If your business is coming to grips with working from home, especially due to coronavirus, PureComms can help you successfully overcome connectivity and business continuity issues.
See more: Home Working IT Challenges – Tips for Overcoming IT Challenges While Working from Home
Benefits of the Cloud
Aside from the above listed uses of the cloud for SMEs, cloud computing offers a range of benefits beyond that of legacy systems.
Scalability
The growth of big data has been exponential and is only expected to rise; cloud technologies are future-proof scalable solutions.
Flexibility
Especially useful for SMEs, cloud computing use is often charged fairly and can be used as and when needed instead of locking in businesses with vendors.
Reliability
As long as businesses have an internet connection, cloud technologies are useable. This also helps speed up hardware storage and reduce downtime.
Collaboration
Data and applications can be accessed from anywhere, streamlining business processes and collaboration.
Cost-effective
Use of the cloud is usually charged with a low subscription fee which can be easily amended if needed. This means businesses pay only for what they use.
Secure
Cloud security is constantly improving, giving SMEs peace of mind that their data and applications are safe, even encrypted, on the cloud.
Automatic
Many processes on the cloud, including monitoring, back-ups and issue detection, are automatically performed on cloud technologies, freeing up SME IT teams to do their regular daily tasks without compromising security.
If you are looking to migrate your business to the cloud, read this first.
Cloud and Fixed-Line Networks
Many SMEs may face the decision of using cloud phone systems (VoIP) or fixed-line. VoIP systems are hosted off-site in the cloud and allow businesses to leverage even more capabilities for their phone system including regular calls and voicemail as well as calling from phones, computers, mobiles and more. As VoIP systems are cloud hosted, they are often a more cost-effective solution for SMEs.
An important consideration for VoIP systems, however, is the reliance on internet connection. If the premise internet goes down, so will the phone lines. A solution to this is to bolster and improve your business’ internet connectivity, which PureComms can assist with.
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Get Started with PureComms
Here at PureComms we have a range of solutions to help your business make the most out of its available IT and communications technology. SMEs across Somerset and beyond achieve reliable and robust telecommunications systems using our expert consultancy and equipment services.
Whether you need optical fibre cabling or tailored network design, we provide support and infrastructure to keep your business moving. Get in touch today!
Need an improved working from home IT solution? Check out our ‘Pure Home Working’ solution.
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