Having an in-house fully managed IT system might work for big corporations but for most small businesses outsourcing to a MSP is the way to go. An increasingly popular option for many small businesses is to include cloud storage and cloud applications into IT operations. As the concept of ‘cloud’ becomes more popular, developers are finding new ways to make business processes simple and connected. One of the best features of most cloud applications is that you can access them from any computer, anywhere. Applications are also available on mobile devices like an iPhone or iPad through either a mobile app or a web browser. This is becoming important because small business owners can spend more time out of the office with customers and clients.
Cloud based apps can help in almost all aspects of small business including scheduling, online payment, accounting, managing documents, CRM and much more. Cost is a huge reason these apps are popular to new companies, in many cases you can start using them for free and then pay as your needs grow. Accessibility is also a cost factor of the business decision to utilize a cloud application. If your small business uses a cloud app, when you hire a new team member, chances are they can use their own technology to access your business app.
Fortunately for the small business owner, cloud apps are generally easy to use and learn. Like any other internet technology, it is important to understand the impact your applications will have on the business and the return on your investment. Security can also be a concern when allowing critical client and company information to be transferred and stored online in the cloud. A best practice is to read the privacy policies and disclosures from the application developer and find reviews by other business owners online for the product.
This infographic shows some of the most popular cloud applications available today.
