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Cloud computing shouldn’t need demystifying, but complex terminology, ongoing hype, and conflicting stories about its potential have complicated its outcomes and perceptions. The technology has the potential to revolutionise business processes while allowing for scalability, agility, and flexibility across multiple touchpoints throughout the organisation.
The complexity lies in the how. How does the cloud step into the business and reimagine its existing capabilities to deliver real value?
The first answer lies in scalability and accessibility.
The technologies that frame the concept of cloud computing allow for organisations to optimise their processes to meet specific demands. Instead of having hardware on site that has to be physically managed and scaled when your business grows, you can use virtual infrastructure provided by your service provider to scale (or downscale) on demand.
The cost savings are immediately apparent as companies no longer have to manage and pay for hardware that they may or may not be using. Instead, the burden of the technology sits with the cloud service provider while you determine usage based on actual need.
Which introduces the next benefit – cost savings.
One of the most often mentioned benefits of cloud computing is its ability to save your business money. On the surface, you can see why. It is on demand, it is flexible and you are paying as you go. At its core, cloud computing shifts the narrative from CAPEX to OPEX.
However, there is conflicting information on the actual savings a business will feel if it moves to the cloud. There are numerous stories about bill shock. Cloud is not cheaper nor is it cost-effective if it is not integrated or managed properly. While it can deliver superb savings because of its economies of scale and pay-as-you-need structure, it will only do so within the right structure and implementation.
You will see cost savings and you can transform your bottom line, but only if you approach the cloud with a realistic strategy and visibility into costs versus expectations. If you don’t lift and shift your infrastructure but instead approach your cloud investment with the goal of simplifying and streamlining your systems, then you will see measurable financial results.
Flexibility and agility are a given.
The scalability and accessibility of the cloud hand deliver, with a gold bow, flexibility, and agility. Want more computing? Done. Want to pivot in a new direction and experiment with new apps? Done. Want to expand to include a global workforce or transform to an entirely remote working model? Done.
Agility and flexibility have become critical business success factors in a highly demanding global market. As your business battles mercurial economies, geopolitical instability, and ongoing uncertainty, the ability to harness flexibility is of immense value. Cloud allows you to rapidly deploy apps, expand resources, and reimagine team collaboration easily.
Combined, all these factors deliver innovation and competitive ingenuity.
When your business can pivot and adapt on demand, you are able to meet market needs and customer expectations at speed. Cloud brings you the tools you need to expand your horizons and achieve your business goals. It gives you access to advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, business process optimisation, ERP and CRM platforms and so much more. It expands the horizons of your organisation by giving your talent the space to collaborate and experiment and adapt. Your teams will innovate at a pace that matches the competition and you will bring ideas to market faster.
While cloud computing has its risks and its fine print, it is a powerful tool for companies who are open to using technology to drive innovation and growth. With the right partner, you can navigate the complexities of compliance, security and regulatory requirements and stay within your cost expectations. Cloud is more than just a technology; it is the sum of evolving parts that help your business thrive in the modern economy.
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About the Author
Moeketsi Ramokone is the owner of JP4IR Solutions.
