The Future of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing is definitely growing rapidly, reportedly five times faster than the whole IT industry. Gartner predicts that by 2016, the bulk of new IT spending in 2016 would be in the cloud computing sector. More larger organizations are expected to take the leap to the cloud, something SMBs have already been doing for a while.
Why SMBs Love the Cloud
Cloud for SMBs is booming because smart small business owners know how to draw benefits from the savings and profits it brings. The fastest-growing SMBs are usually those that are flexible and the most adept at turning information and data into viable results. Companies with the best growth have learned how to win business and compete globally.
A major trend among SMBs is to do business on the go. Many SMBs today are operating on a national or even global scale, with a dispersed workforce that needs access to the same information in order to collaborate. Companies such as Zooce tap into this market by providing services such as zooce cloud that give users access to a virtual desktop in the cloud.
Current Cloud Computing Trends
According to predictions, reliance on cloud software and services will continue to grow especially amongst SMBs. More than 60% of SMBs who took part in a survey about cloud based solutions confirmed that they already make use of the service, while an additional 5% planned on making the shift soon. This is clear indication that SMBs are aware of the advantages and are willing to adopt the service. According to IHS Technologies, cloud-related spending in businesses is expected to triple by 2017.
We are also seeing options such as hybrid clouds that offer the security of a private cloud with the power, scalability and cost efficiency of a public cloud becoming more popular. Through this combination of choice and security, SMBs have greater freedom of choice in regards to personalized solutions without typical security concerns.
The Future Is Now
Instead of being some future concept that could be useful down the line, the cloud has already gone mainstream, and any SMBs that ignore the benefits will quickly find themselves at a disadvantage. To stay competitive, SMBS either have to invest in costly upgrades to their IT infrastructure or embrace the cloud. Those who opt for the former will continue to face costly upgrades to prevent their infrastructure from being outdated, while those who choose the cloud can spend their time and resources on running their business more effectively.
A fear of relinquishing control has held back some SMBs when it comes to using the cloud, but the benefits of flexibility, reduced dependence on expensive hardware and better cost management have become too lucrative to resist.
Chowdhury
