Last Updated on: 22nd November 2023, 08:55 am
In 2023, business is evolving at a rapid pace across all industries and sectors. Many firms are using the latest technology for corporate use that allows them to work more effectively and efficiently. One of the biggest changes in business was the recent move from local based applications and platforms to cloud based systems. Put simply, cloud based platforms allow your company to run software and programs from the internet (instead of being located on physical servers in an office building).
There are numerous advantages to upgrading your systems to be run from cloud based locations. This article seeks to explain three of the key benefits of undertaking this change within your business. If you have not yet moved to a cloud based platform, your organization may be missing out on several key advantages.
Control applications effectively
Traditionally, local server based applications and platforms were quite cumbersome to manage. If any of the applications needed to be updated, the server would often be needed to go offline, which could cause disruption and lost time as the maintenance and upgrades were undertaken. Thankfully, with cloud based systems, the process of application management is controlled by an application programming interface (API). A modern cloud based api management platform can control, monitor and deploy applications more effectively. When changes are needed, this often does not result in downtime for the whole system, as individual applications can be withdrawn from the stack without disrupting other programs and applications. Modern api platforms also benefit from built-in layers of security that keep individual programs and applications safe and secure in the online environment.
Supports hybrid working models
In recent years, there has been a dramatic shift in working methods and accepted working cultures. Many staff were required to work remotely or adopt hybrid working regimes after the onset of the covid-19 pandemic when movement restrictions were put in place by governments. Today, research suggests that workers prefer hybrid models of work 83% of the time. The popularity of this working model means that companies need to offer hybrid working to their staff to retain the best and brightest employees. Thankfully, cloud based systems provide the key to undertaking effective hybrid and remote working patterns. By moving key applications and platforms to the cloud, staff can then access these remotely if they have internet access and suitable clearance. Put simply, cloud based systems promote effective hybrid and remote working practices.
No more local servers
When the full migration to cloud based systems is completed, there is no longer a need to run and maintain local servers. Local servers are recognized to be more expensive than cloud based systems, typically costing between $1,000 and $2,500 per server, although more powerful servers will cost considerably more. Conversely, cloud based servers can be used by an “on-demand” pricing policy which can be cheaper and allows a company to scale its operations more effectively. In addition to the cost saving, cloud based systems can be rented that are maintained and optimized by the server provider. This ensures that there are no maintenance and service costs associated with them. Local servers are commonly maintained and upgraded by in-house IT teams, so clearly, there is a cost saving when moving to the cloud.
