Cloud computing- what is it, what’s all the buzz about and simply why don’t you let the IT department handle it?
Well…..maintaining and controlling technology is essential for business management. Digitalisation has made it necessary to adopt alternative information technology. By using software as a service many companies have shifted business operations to the cloud. It has enabled businesses to manipulate real-time data through configurable resources (e.g. servers and storage applications) without investing in new infrastructure, staff, or licensing new software.
But why do CEOs need to invest in the cloud? The cloud can help ensure that business has the ability to scale more quickly up and down their requirements, whether that is planning, production or distribution. It also ensures greater efficiencies for data storage and making it more secure. Furthermore, it allows for outsourcing support and remote access of software and business critical applications.
Deploying cloud computing has the potential to ultimately shift roles within organisations. CEOs and CFOs are getting more involved in technology management, as they evaluate the benefits of cutting IT infrastructure costs to gain competitive advantage. At a strategic business level, departments are becoming more agile and more empowered and engaged in management.
CEOs must understand the essence of cloud computing and establish management systems that can take their businesses further. It is more than just data management and storage – it allows for greater distribution and sharing of information over different devices.
How important is introducing a cloud based system? – we’d argue that it’s important. Forget the uncertainty about the cloud – start evaluating its potential. The cloud is definitely a hot topic that business leaders must investigate and start to take responsibility for. We mentioned earlier ‘why shouldn’t you let your IT dept get on with it’…. the answer is simple, most IT Directors and departments spend a lot of time fire fighting and trying to release value from existing IT infrastructure. By using the cloud it can help make your business more effective, fleet of foot and able to seize opportunities. Now what CEO wouldn’t want that?