Why your business is ready for the cloud

Cloud computing powers the largest organizations in the world, like Apple, Netflix, Uber, and more. With cloud computing, companies can save on expensive hardware and software costs, focus on their core business and scale their operations in a cost-effective manner. Although cloud computing is powerful, it's not only limited to large billion-dollar companies.

Small businesses can use the cloud to level the playing field and get access to the same technology that was once too expensive. Your business can be more agile, efficient, and productive by leveraging the cloud. This post will explore common misconceptions about the cloud and what you can expect when you transition to cloud computing.

Common misconceptions about moving to cloud computing

Cloud computing is still relatively foreign to many small business owners. Some of the common misconceptions small businesses have about cloud computing include:

It costs too much: The costs of cloud computing are often the biggest misconception. Since cloud computing sounds fancy, businesses assume that it's very expensive. In contrast, cloud computing can actually save businesses money. With cloud computing, you only pay for the resources you use. This is unlike traditional data centers, which require a large up-front investment.

It's too difficult to understand: Many small businesses have non-tech-related businesses, so they often think cloud computing is too difficult to understand and that they will need IT support. This is a common misconception, but cloud computing is actually very easy to use. It's similar to other services, like email, social media, and online banking, but it's tailored specifically toward your data storage and software.

It's not secure: Small business owners also mistakenly believe that the cloud is not secure. In fact, cloud providers have to meet rigorous security standards to be certified. Cloud providers use the same or even better security measures than most small businesses could afford to implement on their own.

Benefits of transitioning to cloud computing

Most small businesses will experience immediate benefits from moving to the cloud. Some of the benefits will include

• Scalability: Cloud computing allows your business to grow as fast as possible, and you can scale your usage based on the needs of your business. If you have an influx of new customers or it's the holiday season, the cloud allows you to meet your needs easily without paying for an expensive upgrade.
  
  
• Cost savings: Cloud computing is often the most affordable option for businesses to manage their data needs. With cloud computing, you only pay for what you use, and you can choose to opt-out of your services at any time. This is unlike traditional data centers with high upfront costs and requires you to commit to a long-term contract.
  
  
• Reliability: Cloud providers offer high levels of uptime and reliability. They also have SLAs (service level agreements) in place to guarantee their services will be available when you need them. This allows you to run your business 24/7 from anywhere in the world.

These are just some of the benefits you can expect when you migrate your operations to the cloud. If you aren't convinced that moving to the cloud is for you, download our free guide, "5 Facts About Moving to the Cloud."