So you have the tenuous early stages of a startup but want to ensure you’re building it on the best foundation possible. Who would have thought that would mean you need to look to the clouds?
Yes, most businesses today use cloud computing as an integral part of their structure. Cloud technology makes storing, sharing, retrieving, and securing data easier. It’s simple to manage projects between multiple people and access files from anywhere when you’re using cloud-based tools to house your information.
And did we mention that cloud technology is extremely affordable? As a startup, every penny is accounted for, so when you need to maximize your infrastructure on a minimal budget, cloud computing simply makes sense.
But if you’re still on the fence about whether this technology is right for you, check out these facts that show why every startup should have its roots planted firmly in the clouds.
1. Your Bank Account Will Thank You
Many startups run on a tight budget. Your overhead is one of the most expensive parts of the business, but it doesn’t have to be.
What are you currently using your funds to cover? Pricey hardware and software large enough to handle your storage needs? Physical storage to house your files securely? Paper, ink, and heavy-duty office equipment? IT professionals to install, maintain, and service your infrastructure?
Use of all of those things is significantly reduced when you move to cloud-based computing, decreasing your overhead expenses at the same time.
You can confidently store your files on the cloud, knowing they’re accessible when you need them. No one has to manually file any paperwork. If you run out of “space,” you can scale your cloud storage service for a slight upcharge — much cheaper on your bank account than moving to a bigger brick-and-mortar building or hiring more staff.
Cloud computing options are notoriously more affordable than their physical alternatives. Because providers can offer on-demand services to multiple clients, the provider’s expense is split, and anything leftover is the company’s profit. If one client drops part or all of the service, the resources given to existing clients don’t change. This makes it easier for the provider to be flexible, allowing each client to pay for what they need and adjust as necessary.
2. You Can Work From Anywhere, With Anyone
Schedule and worksite flexibility is the goal of millions of entrepreneurs. It’s one of the biggest reasons why the self-employment business is booming and why startups like yours can be so successful.
But it’s also why you’ll have global competition that requires you to be mobile-friendly. Depending on your business, cloud computing could lift barriers set by boundaries.
You may hire skilled workers from other countries. Clients thousands of miles away can choose you to complete their jobs. Anywhere there’s internet becomes a potential opportunity for your startup to grow and expand.
Switching to cloud services provides you with mobile capability, too. You don’t need a desktop computer. If you have downtime anywhere you go and need to do some work, just pull out a laptop or tablet and get the job done.IT asset management with DataKnox, a cloud-based solution takes this mobile capability to the next level, you can effortlessly access and manage your IT assets from any device, ensuring seamless productivity on the go
Don’t let your business trip interfere with video conferences. Download the app’s software to your mobile device and chat from your hotel or the airport. Since you have your data hooked to any open connection, there’s no worry that you’ll need a piece of information you left on your “other computer.”
3. Your Data is Secured at Multiple Levels
Sensitive data on your network is your responsibility to protect. In the past, businesses used physical backup systems and firewall software to ensure their computers were safe from damage, malfunctions, and hacking. Cloud storage takes much of this danger out of your hands.
Yes, you still need to do your part to ensure your devices stay in your possession. Keep those logins and passwords complex and change them regularly. Follow all the usual security measures to avoid unsecured sites and downloading potential malware.
But when your files are stored in the cloud, the host protects that information using the latest encryption and firewall services. These businesses can (and must) afford to put a hefty chunk of their budgets into hiring experts in cybersecurity and technology. It’s their job to keep your data safe, and they can do it much better than you can because they have the equipment and professionals to work around the clock.
Breaches Happen, But Cloud Services Reduce Your Risk
Should your data ever get breached, the fact that you’ve hired a cloud provider minimizes your responsibility. The data owner (you) is usually liable for any security breach. Still, as long as you’ve done your part to vet the service before hiring them and your in-house security policies are up-to-date, you have a better chance of minimizing your risk.
Cloud services have enhanced protocols, locks, and other safeguards that are designed to be secure. Nothing is 100% safe, and cyber breaches happen. Yet, if you want to cover your bases, the extra level of security you get with cloud services gives you that peace of mind.
Conclusion
Are you ready to put more focus on building your startup and less on the back side of things? Cloud computing opens up your schedule, budget, and technology opportunities, so you can handle the parts of your business that only you can do.