By Petro Kovalchuk, CEO, Lvivity
Nowadays, it is not surprising that data is stored on a server or even a group of servers remotely located somewhere in another city, country, or even continent. Cloud computing has entered our lives and integrated into it so skilfully that we already do not notice it.
The three main models in this market are:
- Software as a Service (SaaS). The provider software, executed on their cloud infrastructure, is available for consumers.
- Platform as a Service (PaaS). Consumer developed or purchased applications are deployed on the cloud infrastructure resources provided.
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). Consumers can deploy random software on servers providing data processing, storage, networking, and other computing resources.
Many corporate sector representatives use cloud computing to some extent. Nevertheless, not all companies currently use such services on a standalone basis, let alone complete migration to the cloud.
If you, too are still hesitating in this matter, I have compiled a list of 5 main reasons why you should start using cloud services in your business or order a similar product to meet your needs.
Reason 1. High Mobility Level
The user does not have a permanent workplace. Managers can receive reports from anywhere in the world, and executives can monitor production. If an employee has to work remotely for some time, it will not have any negative effect on the company’s general productivity.
A company employee can get access to data stored in the cloud, using a computer, tablet, or smartphone. An internet connection is the only requirement in this case.
Reason 2. Economic Benefit
Along with the outsourced software development and a number of other incidental objectives, cloud computing can save you significant IT costs. The technology reduces business expenditures and ensures a higher competitive performance.
First of all, using cloud resources, large capital expenditures are replaced with a small operational outlay (CAPEX > OPEX). You make small service rental payments regularly rather than spend large amounts of money for expensive equipment and software.
Additionally, you do not need to hire a professional to maintain your local IT infrastructure.
Reason 3. Security
It is important to comprehend that cloud infrastructure is located in a very reliable environment, in which security services are provided automatically.
Data processing centers, which have cloud resources deployed, exclusively employ highly qualified staff responsible for different functions while serving hundreds of clients.
Only a small number of companies can afford to hire an expert responsible for security matters or create a special department ensuring safety.
Reason 4. Ease of Scaling
Users receive the necessary service package only at the moment when they need it. They also pay only for the volume and functionality used. This approach allows them to avoid making large one-off investments. At the same time, they can order increased capacity and functionality in case they’re needed.
This opportunity is especially important for startups, which can develop extremely dynamically. For example, your audience is growing and you have to quickly expand your service capabilities. Without cloud services, the company can purchase the necessary equipment independently, but it would take 2 to 3 months to configure it and make any other adjustments.
Cloud services allow these companies to develop and test their product painlessly, without risking overpaying for unnecessary resources or losing performance due to a shortage.
Reason 5. High Efficiency
Cloud computing provides rapid scalability, resilience, and flexibility combined with a wide range of services, which all together provide high efficiency. In addition, they also include:
- Service level agreements that guarantee services and technical support availability
- Non-disclosure agreements
- Maximum service automation allowing users to connect, disconnect, and configure services remotely without contacting technical support
- “Total” monitoring – virtual infrastructure monitoring functions are an obligatory part of the service
Cloud services have a great future because they provide businesses with major advantages like increased availability for IT services, lower overall costs, and rapid and convenient scalability.
—- Author
Petro Kovalchuk
CEO, Lvivity
The founder and CEO of Lvivity, which specializes in developing software for customers around the world. Petro has 10 years of experience in the IT industry and specializes in .NET development.