Startups have a reputation for burning through lots of cash during their initial launch. They need large amounts of funding to obtain everything they need to get their doors open and to sell their products. Startups must also keep an eye on their spending habits, and the information technology (IT) division deserves careful consideration. Established businesses are capable of maintaining a server room, but a startup can go straight to the cloud instead, as this is an efficient way to save money while keeping data at the ready. Below are three reasons why cloud computing is essential for startups.
Related: Tips for Transitioning Your Business to the Cloud
Cloud computing saves money
IT is an integral part of any business. Without it, you can’t keep up with your competitors. It’s also expensive to set up an office with all the necessary IT equipment for users and servers, because all users need a computer, but not all users need an on-site server. As long as you have reasonably fast internet speed, there’s no noticeable difference between accessing an off-site and on-site server. This makes a compelling argument for cloud storage as an inexpensive and efficient alternative.
Some people in your organization may resist the idea of putting sensitive data in the cloud. To help ease their fears, educate your team members about cloud security and the benefits of the cloud. If they learn more about how the cloud operates and protects data, they will adopt the concept more readily and create less resistance. Education eliminates the stress of losing the data to human error or to hackers.
Scale up quickly
Businesses generate more data as they grow. They need more storage as well as fast-loading web pages and a way to balance loads during heavy periods of use. Before cloud computing, this required organizations to add server racks and IT staff. Cloud computing alleviates the stress on in-house servers by carrying the load and keeping response times short. The user won’t realize that information isn’t stored in-house, because cloud servers are designed to mimic the experience of working on a local server.
It’s a win–win situation for everyone involved. The business doesn’t have to invest in servers, and both users and customers enjoy quick response from the cloud. Reduced wait times help increase productivity among employees and does much to improve the user experience across the board.
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Enable remote computing
You don’t need an office setting for all business operations. Cloud computing allows anyone who has proper access credentials to remotely access data and information. Remote employees can work from home or on the road, get their work done without distractions, and turn projects in ahead of schedule. Telecommuting can also help a startup save money on office space during its early days.
Startups need to keep an eye on the bottom line if they want to become success stories. Using cloud computing from the moment the lights are turned on has great potential to save money, keep documents secure and enable employees to work from home.
