Written for EO by Ashley Fletcher Frampton Anyone who has embarked on the entrepreneurship journey knows the risks are plentiful. One area of risk that cannot be underestimated is your company’s information technology (IT) system: It can impact everything from data security to business performance. The rise of cloud computing has lowered this exposure dramatically. Here’s how—and why—to take advantage of cloud computing for your small business. How Cloud Computing Reduces RiskCloud computing allows entrepreneurs to outsource the risks associated with data security, along with the responsibility of backing up files, updating software and maintaining costly on-site hardware. Here are some additional benefits of could computing:
How to Get Started with Cloud ComputingIf you’ve decided the cloud is right for your small business, here are some tips for getting started: 2. Do the math. Once you’ve identified the cloud services that can power your business, add up the costs. Many cloud services are inexpensive on a monthly basis and require no initial capital outlays. Just make sure you aren’t signing up for so many services that you rack up a bill you can’t afford. Know how your costs will rise as you add users. Consider starting with the cloud services you need most and adding more later. 3. Make sure you have the technical know-how. The beauty of many cloud services is that they are designed to be user-friendly with intuitive interfaces. Some options, however, might require more technical expertise on an ongoing basis or even just initially as you make the switch from legacy systems. Find out what tech knowledge is required for a customized cloud solution, if you need one. Also, assess what level of training your staff will need to maximize the cloud-based services you choose and plan for providing it. Your cloud vendor might offer online tutorials to help. 4. Know your vendor. Even the most user-friendly cloud service might present a challenge at some point. Maybe someone’s mobile device isn’t playing nicely, or you have questions about how to execute a nifty function and the FAQ page isn’t helping. Before jumping on board with a cloud vendor, make sure you’re comfortable with its reputation and track record. Understand how and when you can reach customer support. Read the Service Level Agreement to find out what standards a vendor promises for your business and which remedies you’ll receive if it falls short. 5. Assess your bandwidth. As you ramp up your reliance on cloud services, make sure you have sufficient internet bandwidth to accommodate the increased network traffic. If you don’t, you could end up with delays in workflow. Consider how many users you’ll have, how many devices they’ll use, and whether their work activities represent low bandwidth requirements like email, or larger demands like videoconferencing. Talk to your internet service provider (ISP) about an upgrade if you discover it’s needed.
Ashley Fletcher Frampton is a freelance writer and editor who helps businesses tell their stories. She covers the value of technology for today’s small businesses for Comcast Business. The post How Small Businesses Can Easily Adopt Cloud Computing appeared first on Octane Blog – The official blog of the Entrepreneurs' Organization. via Octane Blog – The official blog of the Entrepreneurs' Organization https://ift.tt/2PWtB0d
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