The cloud is not going anywhere. It’s easy to move your files to the cloud for easy backup, sharing, and collaboration. The next question for businesses, small offices, and consultants is: Should I move my apps to the cloud?
Let’s start with the basics of what a cloud app is. It is simply storing your app on the Internet instead of your own server or computer. How do you get it functional on the cloud? At the most complicated, if you have an application that has been customized or tweaked, then you’ll need to deploy your own custom app to work on the cloud infrastructure. Custom programs and databases will need to be cloud-ready and is not typically ready right out of the box. The better or less complicated way is to find an existing cloud-based application that gives you the functionality you’re looking for.
A custom online app allows for more flexibility, but you better have an in-house developer or open budget since you’ll always need to rely on this IT service programmer. I recommend going with an app already customized and ready to go within the cloud and to just pay the subscription fee or pay-as-you-go fee. This is known as purchasing the Software as a Service, or SaaS.
Why go with the cloud service for apps? Faster access to apps from wherever, whenever. If your computer network office and remote users need to work within the same program. You no longer have to worry about being in the office network or having the software to install the program. Just access it anywhere and make simultaneous updates. No license issues or maximum connection caps. Just connect!
In regard to cost, you pay for when you’re connecting and using the cloud app. But, the bottom line of ongoing costs must be closely viewed to see if the opportunity cost may be justified here. Typically, cloud apps will benefit companies where at least 5-10 people at a minimum need to access the same cloud app. Otherwise, the cost may be too high for offices on a smaller scale.