Today, enterprises are turning to cloud service providers for their expertise in transitioning their workloads to the cloud. With the evolution of cloud computing technology, the role of IT for business has transformed from a tactical maintenance play to a strategic tool for innovation and process improvement. Companies leveraging cloud for competitive advantage are using the technology in the line of business. Here are five common uses of cloud computing in 2014.
Simplification of Internal Operations
Companies rely on cloud computing technology to enhance internal efficiencies and facilitate business operations through IT system management from a centralized location. By streamlining processes for the end users, companies using cloud computing can better direct time, efforts and funds toward the core of the business. This directly impacts the bottom line, helping to control costs and improve service channels.
Better Delivery of Internal Resources
Cloud computing facilitates more efficient projects with less operational troubleshooting. On-demand access to scalable resources at low-cost allows companies to address business demands quickly and efficiently. This enables greater innovation and the ability to enter new markets with reduced risk. Additionally, dynamic servers house applications and storage in a centralized location, allowing for greater employee collaboration and ease of access.
New Ways for Employees to Work, Connect and Collaborate
Facing a growing popularity and need for BYOD (bring-your-own-device), companies must embrace mobility of resources to maintain employee accessibility and availability of information. Cloud allows employees to access networks from Internet-enabled devices. With cloud software including Hosted Virtual Desktops and file sharing tools, employees can work, connect and collaborate from any device any time, from virtually any location.
Improved Ability to Acquire, Share, Analyze and Act on Data
Perhaps the most discussed use of cloud computing in 2014 is Big Data. Enterprises rely on cloud to meet the challenge of storing and analyzing the increasing volume of information in today’s digital world. By understanding big data analytics, companies can act on consumer trends more quickly and innovate to stay competitive in a fast-paced market.
Faster Rollout of New Business Initiatives to Exploit New Opportunities
Companies are using cloud computing as a foundation to create new and innovative applications or business procedures. As cloud matures, more enterprises grow internal DevOps practices, moving agilely to cost-efficiently test and develop new tools that can propel the business forward faster. As cloud computing adoption increases, enterprises seeing the most benefit are those who leverage the technology to improve business process and enhance innovation.
How is your company using cloud computing in 2014? What are your plans for 2015?
