Cornerstone Business Solutions managing director Chris Petty talks about the latest Cloud-based solutions for Tees businesses…
If it’s in the Cloud it must be better, right? Well, maybe. And maybe not. Is it really better or is it just better marketing?
Think of any technology today and you’ll most probably find a “Cloud” version that’s perfect for your needs – or at least that’s what the Cloud companies want you to think.
Everyone today is talking about Cloud-based solutions and Cloud computing. It seems to be what everyone wants, and any company providing any sort of software or service wants to have a Cloud version.
You’ve probably all heard of either Dropbox, Onedrive, Google Drive, Box & Amazon Cloud Drive – and there are plenty more.
You can view your files from any phone, tablet or computer that’s connected to the Internet, and the Cloud can also provide backup for files so they’ll never disappear if your phone gets lost or your computer crashes.There’s also obviously the Apple icloud but that doesn’t work with Android and is meant to work only within the Apple ecosystem.
All of these offer a free basic starting point and small data storage as standard. As our data grows and we require more space we then have to pay a monthly fee to continue. These are great but is that the right solution for you?
All of these have fantastic marketing and, at first glimpse, look like the perfect solution. In some cases they actually are.
But before jumping straight into a Cloud solution, I’d advise you to consider what your business requirements are – for instance, what files you need to share and whether you want more than one person to be able to change a document at the same time. Calenders, CRM, accounts, payroll and office locations (especially internet speeds) are all factors to take into consideration.
I’ve experienced businesses rushing into the wrong Cloud solution. When they do, it’s not so much a costly mistake but more of a frustrating and timely error which we can all do without.
The Cloud is great, and it offers us great flexibility within our businesses.
We have a wider choice and that can make it complicated, which is why it’s always best to consult your local business IT experts to ensure you get the best advice for your systems now and in the future.
Chris Petty
Managing director
www.cornerstonebs.co.uk
http://teesbusiness.co.uk/2016/09/14/do-you-have-your-head-in-the-cloud/