Cloud computing is here to stay, and keep growing. In 2010, an Elon University survey predicted: “Technology experts and stakeholders say they expect they will ‘live mostly in the cloud’ in 2020 and not on the desktop, working mostly through cyberspace-based applications accessed through networked devices.”

Small and medium sized businesses are embracing digital transformation and reaping the benefits of cloud-based technology. IT spending reflects this trend. According to the Worldwide Semiannual Small and Medium Business Spending Guide from International Data Corporation (IDC), the total IT spending will be nearly $602 billion in 2018, reaching $684 billion in 2021. Considering that in 2008 the investment on cloud computing was 1% of the total IT spending, the growth of cloud technology is certain.

“Living in the cloud” is becoming the norm in an interconnected world. The Rightscale 2017 State of the Cloud Report said that 95% of respondents are already using the cloud, which reflects how much the cloud has transformed how businesses work. There are two main benefits of cloud-based apps. The first is access. Cloud-based apps enable access to information and communication anytime, anywhere.  The second is security. Data can be stored safely in high security cloud environments and can be shielded from events such as cyber intrusion and natural disasters.

Below are some reasons of why the cloud is so popular these days, and why more businesses are adopting a cloud computing strategy:

Less Costs, More Revenue

Cloud computing might be popular, but how does it help to save costs and increase a company’s revenue? For instance, it’s hard to think about cloud computing without thinking about companies like Salesforce. According to IDC, between 2016 and 2022 cloud computing will add approximately “$140 billion per year to the ongoing revenue streams Salesforce has helped to create”.

This applies also to small and medium sized businesses. An Exact and Pb7 Research study found that SMBs that migrate to the cloud achieve 25% more revenue growth compared to those that don’t invest in cloud computing. Kae Williams, general manager at Exact, U.S. Cloud Solutions, said: “Cloud usage among small businesses is exploding thanks to the tangible business value it has been proven to deliver”.

Saving costs in acquiring expensive hardware and licensing makes a big difference in a company’s budget, since these resources can be allocated in other areas of improvement. The cloud allows the business to operate business applications from service provider equipment instead of on-premise systems that require huge investments in installation and maintenance.

Improves Connectivity

Everyone is living on the go, so connectivity is key. More work is done on time if employees are able to access systems and important information when they need it – not until they’re in front of their desktop computer.

Cloud-based integration apps make it possible to collaborate with other team members regardless their location, answer questions from leads, customers and other employees, and keep operations running smoothly. Businesses of all sizes are taking advantage of cloud technology to allow remote work and keep their staff motivated, increase productivity and save money.

Accelerate Sales Process

Being able to close deals and nurture customer relationships from the laptop, tablet or smartphone is one of the main opportunities provided by the cloud. Salespeople don’t need to wait until they arrive in the office to contact leads that just filled out a contact form, do follow ups and answer any questions. All can be done on the road.  

Cloud technology facilitates the integration of different applications employees can access from any device. For instance, with an ERP or accounting system integrated with the CRM, salespeople can check leads status and customer records anytime, and add updates that will be visible in real time in both systems.

Happier Customers

An Accenture survey found that 73% of customers expect an “easier and more convenient” customer care service, and 61% said they wanted a “faster” service. Businesses that invest in cloud technology can facilitate the access to customer records, invoices, inventory and other key information when they need it. That way, they provide answers and resolve issues faster, which results in an excellent customer experience.

The MuleSoft Connectivity Benchmark Report 2018 states that “digital transformation is increasingly becoming a ‘when, not an if’ for most companies”. One of the trends mentioned in the report is a “connected consumer experience”, which refers to the improvement of the customer experience through the connection of all customer-facing systems, which is possible, easier and affordable for many SMBs with the cloud.

Flexibility

The variety of applications available for businesses is always growing. Sales, accounting, marketing, project management, and more business day-to-day operations are cloud-based, which allows employees and managers the flexibility to access up-to-date data from different devices and locations, create a collaborative work environment and resolve problems faster.

Since companies save expenses on hardware installation and maintenance by using cloud-based applications, they only have to pay for what they’re using now. That way, there’s more time and resources to strategize and create product development to help companies grow, without the need to maintain expensive infrastructure and hardware.

Backup and Disaster Recovery

If a natural disaster or an unexpected event occurs, the loss of valuable data is a risk no business can afford. With that information safely stored in the cloud, the business continues its operations, sends invoices and receives payments as usual. Employees can access data (sales, accounts receivable, and more) from anywhere, especially when it’s not safe to come back to the offices.

These are only some of the reasons why migrating to the cloud is so popular these days, and this trend will continue. Are you ready to increase productivity and efficiency with cloud-based applications? Contact us today to find out more.  

Are you ready to start leveraging the power of the cloud in your own business? We’re here to help you. Call us to the number 678-383-4147 or send us an email to sales@arguscloud.net for more info.