Understanding the Cloud
Unlike in the past, cloud computing is continuously evolving, with businesses of different sizes and shapes adapting to this technology.  Some experts in the industry believe that the trend will grow continuously and further develop in the next years to come. Although cloud computing has unquestionable benefits, some small business owners are still skeptical about using it for their businesses.   Some information about cloud computing are myths, that is why it is very important to understand what this technology is all about as well as the benefits of cloud computing.

Benefits of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing provides substantial benefits to all business types, especially if properly used up to necessary extent.  From easy distribution up to not needing the service of IT staffs, this technology is very appealing to smaller businesses that do not have sufficient budget in running their servers throughout the day.  Below are just some of the advantages offered by cloud computing:

• Scalability – with cloud computing, anyone can now scale the storage needs of their business instead of going out to purchase expensive hardware or programs.   They can ran a project and pay all the cloud applications that are needed to make, implement and promote the project on monthly basis.  A business can subtract or add capacity wherein the network load directs.  Cloud computing also monitors utility model where the costs of service will depend upon the consumption, thus a company only pays for what they utilize. Scalability means there is no need to buy hardware piece, purchase software licenses and worry about servers overloading.
• Security – another major concern in cloud computing is the security. Before utilizing this technology, a business owner should understand that all sensitive information of the company is provided to the third party. However, cloud computing is more secured compared to traditional models because it provides real-time backup, resulting to lesser data loss.  In the event of outage, clients can utilize backup servers which sync with main ones as soon as the servers are up again. During transitions, the business receives maximum server’s uptime without losing any data.  Moreover, cloud computing are less susceptible to hacks because people do not have any idea on data’s whereabouts.
• Innovation – cloud computing provides clients with more access to power which is not typically accessible in standard PC.  With innovation, applications now utilize virtual power.  In addition, clients can create virtual assistants that automate tasks like managing dates, ordering and providing reminders for forthcoming meetings.
• Design – most of the time, companies buy the newest software hoping that sales will improve.  Sometimes, there are programs that do not meet the company’s needs because some businesses require customized touch which cannot be provided by ordinary software.  Cloud computing provides opportunity for the users to create customized application designon user-friendly interface.  In this competitive world of business, customization is the key so that a business will have an edge over the others.

These are just some of the benefits being offered by cloud computing, especially to small businesses. Although there are some risks associated with utilizing this technology, the benefits surely outweigh the negatives ones.

L. Howell is a research specialist at Xvand’s IsUtility, a Houston-based cloud computing provider helping small businesses optimize thier information technology needs.