Cloud computing has been described as the future of computing and a boon for businesses with ambitious growth plans and the desire to use best in breed, innovative computing solutions. Adopting cloud computing is a strategic decision that helps organizations tackle the ongoing challenges of limited information technology resources and the need for increased agility.

Cloud computing offers technology utility, as the internet reduces costs while providing the technological tools and services needed by businesses to be competitive. Cloud computing has made headway across industries globally, positively impacting organizations' IT infrastructure – improving business performance and effectiveness.

However, businesses may not have the skills needed to thoroughly investigate the entire range of cloud computing options. When selecting the right cloud computing services, consultants play an important role as a bridge between vendors and users. Businesses can then select secure and viable cloud ecosystems, and benefit from technology that is perfectly suited to their needs and operations.

What business leaders need to appreciate:

  • Cloud computing increases business efficiency and productivity and lowers IT costs
  • Cloud computing, which boosts business throughput, must be a top technology priority
  • A computer or other end point device connected to the internet is all that is needed to benefit from cloud computing - no infrastructure overhaul is needed
  • Returns on investments in cloud computing tends to be more immediate than investments in new IT infrastructure.
  • Benefits tend to come from the cloud's OpEx model, rather than the traditional CapEx model for technology investments.

Cloud computing and business

Irrespective of the nature of your business, IT enables agility and efficiency. The cloud is ultimately a 'pay as you use' model, replacing capital costs with operating costs, and so significantly reducing the technology investment uncertainty. Often, cloud services provide a free testing platform for emails, blogs, customer relationship management, project management, sales management, enterprise resource management, accounting and other business solutions before having to sign up and pay.

First published 13 April 2017

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.