Obsolete business phone systems, servers, fax machines, time clocks, and external hard drives take up space. You also have to consider the costs of new equipment and technology disposal.
Small startups and established companies are discovering the benefits of the cloud, but you save more than just business expenses. Studies show that cloud technology improves productivity, which leads to higher revenue and less idle time.
Cloud systems themselves only go so far. You need the right solutions to make the most of the cloud.
Learn how to set up the right cloud system for your small business.
Understanding SaaS Cloud Applications
Cloud technology helped usher in the age of SaaS, which stands for “software as a service.”
Why does SaaS matter for your cloud system?
Many cloud products use SaaS subscription models to deliver cloud services to clients. Businesses pay for these services on a monthly or annual basis, which helps startups save money on business operations.
The most popular business cloud products on the web are also SaaS applications. Within minutes, you can pay for a product subscription and be up and running from any internet-connected device.
Cloud System Service Quality
Since signing up for business cloud products is so simple, it’s easy to get excited and purchase a subscription right away. However, there are critical variables to consider.
How reliable is the cloud application’s service? Does your subscription come with decent tech support? Put your sleuthing cap on and investigate the finer details.
Many cloud services use tiered payment models; the more you pay, the more features you enjoy. Bronze, silver, gold, platinum product plans are common cloud payment models.
If you want reliable tech support, for example, you may need to upgrade from a bronze model to a silver plan. Assess your needs first before selecting a plan.
Security is another concern. Some public cloud applications pose legitimate security risks for sensitive data, despite their popularity. That’s why it’s critical to research public vs private cloud systems first.
Types of Cloud Applications
There are several types of products to consider for your cloud system. Cloud products run the gamut, offering everything from business communication to document creation. You may want to use custom SaaS solutions to build and manage your system.
If you’re building your own system, start with the essentials.
Cloud-based VoIP applications let you call clients, hold conferences from your computer, and even send and receive faxes via email. You also need a document creation tool that lets you compose and save reports to the cloud; make sure colleagues can view and edit shared documents.
Cloud servers let you build and manage websites, business tools, and custom software solutions without buying a physical server. You need a powerful server solution that accommodates growing business demands.
Cloud servers are technically IaaS products, which means “infrastructure as a service.” Other examples of IaaS products include application deployment and virtual machine programs.
Enjoy the Benefits of the Cloud
Are you ready to empty the business equipment closet?
Let your cloud system take the hassle out of business operations. Remember these tips as you transition your company to the cloud.
Cloud applications are just the beginning. Discover more resources to help your startup thrive!
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