You already rely on cloud computing. When you chat on WhatsApp or TikTok, send emails via Outlook Online or Gmail, communicate with Slack or Teams, or use your internet banking or loyalty cards, cloud computing powers these services. Even mobile apps use cloud computing to work. Today's connected world would not exist without it. 

But while it's easy to use the cloud, many companies overlook how cloud computing can make them more resilient and secure, save time and money, and boost productivity and employee satisfaction. 

Cloud computing is on-demand software for applications and data. Cloud services run in massive data centres, reaching multiple users through internet connections. This arrangement lets cloud providers offer free and very cheap services at scale, and cloud users pay much less because they can use subscriptions and pay-per-use options. 

Cloud Computing's Advantages 

If you constantly balance cost with productivity and business continuity, you'll appreciate what cloud computing offers: 

Business continuity: A big drawback of relying on your own servers is that they might fail or are susceptible to cyberattacks such as ransomware or physical threats like fires or theft. Cloud servers sit in highly secure data centres, which is why 20% of cloud storage users recover from a site disaster in 4 hours or less.  

Saves money: If you want to run software by yourself, you need servers, software licences, and IT people who can manage everything around them. With most cloud computing, you simply pay a subscription to access the software. This shift from capital costs to operating budgets is why 83% of companies report big financial gains by using cloud services. 

Better security: You can't pass your security responsibilities to the cloud. You still need good passwords, apply regular updates, and to watch out for scams. But cloud providers spend a lot of money and effort on security, so you don't have to. Consequently, 94% of businesses using cloud computing saw security improvements. 

Gives scale and flexibility: When you use cloud services, you can conveniently add and remove accounts, making costs more predictable and requiring much smaller amounts than capital investments. You can also add new services as needed, making it much less risky to try something new. 88% of companies report much improved efficiency and agility because of cloud computing. 

Better collaboration: Easy collaboration and sharing is very important for today's employees, both at the office and when they work remotely. This ability must be seamless and secure, two things cloud systems excel at, and studies prove that sharing and collaboration are very positive for SME sustainability. 

New technologies: Are your employees using generative AI such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot? Then, they are using the cloud to access the newest technologies. Cloud computing makes it much easier, faster, and affordable to try new and advanced technologies with less risk, from AI to data analytics to improving your real-world premises with Internet of Things gadgets. No wonder 48% of companies are using the cloud to experiment with new technologies. 

Cloud computing offers many opportunities for your business. For a sample of the most popular options, browse Vodacom's Cloud Marketplace. 

Should you use cloud computing? 

Every business benefits from cloud computing. When you decide to invest in a cloud service, prepare yourself for success with these tips: 

The two biggest issues when adding a cloud service are upfront costs and learning new skills. The cost of using a new cloud service is often negligible since you can sign up for free trials, and you don't have to buy expensive licences. However, your costs might grow as you expand your use of a service, so budget accordingly. You can also save by taking annual or team subscriptions. 

Ensure that people will benefit from the new service and have access to training resources. For the first step, look at popular cloud services and what they do. For example, Microsoft 365 is an excellent choice for emails, calendars, and video meetings. Also, talk to your staff—they might have suggestions. You can often find good resources for training on the software providers' websites, YouTube, and sites such as LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, and Skillshare. 

Finally, manage your cloud services. Many companies waste money because they subscribe to services they don't need or have extra subscriptions they can cancel.  

You'll modernise your business and save on budget with cloud computing. To find out more or speak to the experts Contact Vodacom Business and start reaping the rewards that comes with using cloud computing.