Small businesses are embracing the cloud at an extremely fast rate. By some reports cloud-based business apps are being implemented by over 20 percent of small businesses with predictions to triple in the next three years. It’s clear that cloud computing is transforming small business, but what kind of attitude do small businesses have toward cloud computing technology?
According to a study conducted by Microsoft which surveyed over 3,000 small businesses in 13 countries, cloud service use by small businesses will double in the next five years. But what is interesting is that it also discovered that micro business use will triple in the next two to three years. The survey also discovered a bit about the attitudes that small businesses have toward cloud computing and most of it is positive.
Cost Savings — Small businesses are implementing cloud computing through all major business processes because it offers tremendous savings over traditional in-house software. Small businesses can leverage enterprise class software for a fraction of the cost, thus allowing competition with big business coupled with the competitive advantage of having a lean, small business.
Increased Access — Small businesses are finding that their ability to be mobile is increased by using cloud based business software solutions. They can use any device from anywhere to connect with cloud based apps, enabling them to serve their clients more efficiently while employing fewer staff.
Great Security — While some small business owners are concerned with cloud security, most of them believe that their data is at least as secure as their own in-house systems, but many believed that their data was more secure. This is a change in attitude over the last few years, and I suspect it will improve even more as more small business owners understand the value of cloud-based applications.
Unlimited Storage — One fascinating fact about cloud-computing is the ability to store as much information as you want to, without investing in additional hardware. Because of cloud-based storage, there is no more need for huge external hard-drives taking up power and space on the premises. Now a small business can purchase storage as they need it, when they need it, at a fraction of the cost.
Simply Getting More — Small businesses realize that they can get the best apps for business in the cloud for a lot less money, with a lot more flexibility. Small businesses can get more than ever before for the money, with no need for in-house IT personnel which is yet another cost savings. Small businesses can now, due to the cloud, leverage enterprise level software, giving them the capabilities of larger businesses.
Overall, small businesses attitude toward cloud computing is favorable with 40% of small businesses now using at least one cloud based business application. Small businesses are using Email, File Sharing, Instant Messaging, Voice and Web conferencing at ever increasing rates with Project management, Marketing, Security, Productivity and other applications following close behind. It’s clear that doing business in the cloud is going to explode in the next couple of years. It’s imperative that your business doesn’t get left behind.
