How much does a business owner know about The Cloud? I’m finding that for most people, it’s a yes or no answer. “Yes, I’m in the Cloud,” or “No, I’m not in the Cloud.” As an IT professional, I wish it could be that simple!
To borrow from Wikipedia, “Cloud computing is shared pools of configurable computer system resources and higher-level services that can be rapidly provisioned with minimal management effort, often over the Internet. Cloud computing relies on sharing of resources to achieve coherence and economies of scale, similar to a public utility.” And here’s my favorite part: “Third-party clouds enable organizations to focus on their core businesses instead of expending resources on computer infrastructure and maintenance.” Cloud technology really can be a boon to small and mid-size business, but it’s not (yet) a Yes or No service.
Cloud technology has been around for more than just the decade most of us have seen the term used. It is an integral part of Information Technology, but like other key components—it’s complicated. And of course, it changes rapidly. There is much to know.
At Aptica, we see cloud technology as a hybrid. Storing data in the cloud can be a lifesaver for disaster recovery, but we also see the need to keep some business data local. This is more than just a philosophical leaning; it’s also a financial one. How much should you invest in paying for cloud technology, and how much should you invest in owning your own local servers?
Your Local IT Consultant Can Help You Know About Use of The Cloud
When you hire outsourced IT services, your Virtual Chief Information Officer should look at your balance of cloud v. local data management. At Aptica, we look at a 5 year period of ROI on cloud investment for cost effectiveness. We have seen that in many instances a smaller business can start losing money on cloud commitments in the 3rd or 4th year of use. That should not happen.
You can give us a call if you have questions about how big a role The Cloud should play in your data storage and protection. It’s not as easy as Yes or No.
Jason Newburg, 260.243.5100, ext 2101, is the founder and owner of Aptica LLC. This IT management and support company has been serving small to medium sized businesses for 16 years in the region that includes Angola, South Bend, and Fort Wayne, IN, Battle Creek, MI, and Toledo OH.