Did you know that about 80% of businesses report operation improvements after adopting cloud computing? In fact, approximately 71% of managers use cloud technology to speed up service delivery. As an entrepreneur, it’s important to understand how this technology can help small businesses grow.

Failure to do so can make it challenging to compete with brands and safeguard your data. Below are seven critical benefits of the cloud and how to leverage it for your small business.

1. Improved Data Access

Storing data in on-premise servers can limit access, making it challenging for small businesses teams to work remotely. The cloud allows you and your employees to access various business tools and files online. Additionally, several people can use files simultaneously and even collaborate in real-time provided they have the required credentials to log in to business platforms.  

2. Simplified Collaboration

Some small business projects require employee collaboration for faster completion. The cloud allows your teams to edit and share documents from different devices.

Embracing cloud technology helps you optimize business talents. Further, you can simplify solving problems and build an efficient team.

3. Reduced Downtime

Another way the cloud can help small businesses is by reducing downtime. When most of your data is online, you can continue operating even when experiencing server issues.

Moreover, employees can work remotely during procedures affecting business premises usage, such as relocating or maintenance.

4. Better Data Protection

Data protection is a significant issue for many small businesses. Without the right processes and controls, you may breach client privacy, leading to compliance issues.

The cloud can help small businesses secure data through limited access and authentication procedures. The cloud also allows these businesses to monitor activities on critical platforms and detect signs of breach or unauthorized access.

5. Simplified Disaster Recovery

Various issues such as malware attacks and server failure or damage can lead to the loss of essential files. The cloud allows you to safely store data online and retrieve it during emergencies. It also simplifies replacing on-premise software with cloud solutions for improved reliability.

6. Reduced Operation Costs

Adopting cloud solutions allows you to lower business costs in many ways. First, you can avoid the expenses of buying and maintaining computer hardware. Additionally, you can avoid hiring many employees to manage and organize company data.

Some cloud solutions feature a subscription-based payment model. This aspect means you only incur costs when using the platforms. When you migrate data to the cloud, you can avoid significant expenses by switching to software-as-a-service (SaaS) tools.

7. Enhanced Consistency

When employees use individual computers, their work can have varying formats and templates. The cloud allows you to leverage one software version on all IT infrastructure.

Your team will also be able to sync devices and use the same account for shared projects. This measure will prevent data inconsistencies that waste time and prevent compatibility issues.

Understand How the Cloud Can Help Small Businesses

The cloud presents many cost and time-saving benefits to small businesses. At Thinline Tech, we offer hosted IT infrastructure services to help you leverage the cloud. Our experts will help you implement solutions to replace your on-premises software.

They will work closely with your team to determine the proper tools to scale your brand and improve reliability. Call us today at 410-453-9300 or fill out our contact form for more details on how the cloud can help small businesses.