What is Cloud-based?
Simply put, cloud-based refers to a network of servers that are hosted on the internet, which you are able to access from anywhere, at any time, as long as you have an internet connection.
In the past, people needed to run applications or programs from software on a physical computer or servers located in their building. Cloud services allows the same functionality, at a convenient, cost-effective alternative.
Examples of cloud software include online email accounts, Facebook and online banking. Cloud-based is fast becoming the new normal, with many individuals using multiple cloud services daily.
“According to a study by the Cloud Security Alliance, 33% of organizations have a “full steam ahead” attitude toward cloud services and 86% of companies spend at least part of their IT budget on cloud services. IT leaders at 79% of companies receive regular requests from end users each month to buy more cloud applications.” https://www2018.skyhighnetworks.com/cloud-security-blog/11-advantages-of-cloud-computing-and-how-your-business-can-benefit-from-them/
Let’s look at some benefits to using cloud-based software:
1. Flexibility
Whether you are a small business or a large, global company, cloud software allows you to store varying amounts of data, growing or shrinking, as your business changes.
2. Back-up and Recovery
One of the biggest drawbacks of using an on-site backup facility, is the opportunity for disaster. Any number of problem could arise that places your data in danger.
Cloud software often comes with more than one back-up server, ensuring peace of mind that your data can successfully be recovered at any given time. Some forms of cloud software automatically backs up all your data according to a schedule that you can set up.
3. Reliability
Most cloud services guarantee a 24/7 approach to availability, working from multiple servers, to ensure that they never have more than a few minutes down time.
4. Saves money
Cutting out expensive hardware and replacing it with a much smaller subscription fee, is an easy way to save money, and usually comes with support and maintenance.
5. Automatic software updates
Cloud-based applications automatically update themselves, instead of forcing an IT department to perform manual updates throughout the entire company. This saves valuable time that could be spent on other tasks.
6. Work from anywhere
If you have an internet connection, you have access to the cloud. Whether you are working on complicated software or mobile APPs, it can be accessed from anywhere, at any time.
Productivity increases, as employees could continue working from home, waiting for a meeting to start, commuting… the possibilities are endless.
7. Document control
Different versions of documents being sent out becomes a thing of the past. With cloud, only one document will be available. This allows for employees operating in different time zones and locations to always have access on the RIGHT information.
8. Security
Loss of hardware, be it stolen laptops or damage to your premises, is very expensive to deal with. This is made even more costly if a non-cloud server is used.
With cloud software, as soon as a problem arises due to theft, for instance, all you need do is change your login details and your information is safe. Because it is no longer saved on the hardware itself, it becomes more difficult for sensitive information to be stolen.
9. Speed
Instant access allows for faster production time. The old adage “time is money” comes to mind, which is a problem that cloud software drastically improves.
10. Environmentally friendly
Hosting on the cloud is more environmentally-friendly, and results in less of a carbon footprint. Cutting down on physical hardware and products, and improving energy efficiency helps in sustaining our environment.
Combine all of these points, and there is really only one question left to ask: why have you not moved over to a cloud-based software solution?
ERS software is completely cloud-based and integrates with your payroll. Contact us today for a free consultation of our software solutions.
