The cloud is everywhere. Whether you work in a small business or a large enterprise, chances are your company already has or will soon adopt a cloud computing system. As a team leader, it is important to consider the qualifications and needs of cloud computing before implementation. MDL Technology shares a guide to help understand and choose a cloud system.
Know Your Stuff
It is a common misconception that there is one almighty cloud lingering above our heads at all times. While the cloud never disappears, it is divided. There is a wide variety of different types of cloud systems which serve different functions for a plethora of needs. It is essential for business owners to identify which type of cloud software their company needs.
- Software as a Service (SaaS): A cloud model using third-party platforms (Google Apps, Salesforce, GoToMeeting, Cisco WebEx, etc.) that use the internet to run and deliver apps and content. Saas can be run through a web browser and rarely needs additional downloads. This is a great solution for businesses with smaller IT budgets, as SaaS solutions most often offer flexible payment plans and automatic patch updates. A disadvantage to SaaS is that it can’t be customized and most often exists on a public structure. Learn more about SaaS systems here.
- Platform as a Service (PaaS): This cloud model allows users and developers to create customized, private solutions for their professional needs. PaaS lets users develop, run and manage their systems. This type of cloud is most often used by companies in software development because of its customizable layout. PaaS can be hosted within a public or private cloud, which is another important feature to understand before choosing a cloud solution.
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): This model describes a service that is built, managed and maintained entirely outside of your company’s walls. This platform is highly scalable and most often is run on a pay-per-use model. Some of the most popular IaaS systems include Amazon Web Services, Windows Azure, Google Compute Engine and more.
Daily Integration
Is your company quick to adopt new technology and well-versed in tech-jargon? If so, then adopting a cloud solution should be an easy transition for your staff. However, if your team members or in-house technology require a more traditional approach to business, adopting a cloud solution could take a little more time to integrate, but shouldn’t pose a real challenge.
Starting with a trial run of a simpler cloud service could present a great opportunity for managers to observe exactly how much a can benefit their company. Additionally, you’ll be able to see exactly how much your staff actually does use the software in their regular workload. It is also important to train your staff and/or create a handbook on cloud policies and best practices.
Risk Assessment
Like all investments, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks that may arise. Planning out a backup schedule, a threat prevention policy and patch management solution will help to reduce the likelihood of a crash or cyber-attack, but often comes at an additional expense. Before investing in a cloud solution, be sure to include risk protections in your budget as well.
If you are interested in learning more about which cloud solution is best for your company, call today at 816-781-3006
