National Pack Rat day is Sunday, May 17. We can all be guilty of being a bit of pack rat, especially when it comes to business files. Luckily, there is a way to avoid becoming a computer file hoarder by utilizing cloud computing.
Photo Credit: StockMonkeys.com / Foter / CC By
Transitioning Forces Clean Out
When you decide to transition to cloud computing, you are forced to take a hard look at your files to decide what should stay and what should go. The cloud is a perfect opportunity to do some major clean out. There will of course be items you should keep, but there are some things it is time to get rid.
Here is an example. Let’s say you a construction company and you had multiple blueprints created trying to get the project just right for a client six years ago. It is safe to delete all the mockups and only transfer the final blueprint version over to the cloud.
Depending on your cloud provider, you can arrange for regular cleanouts of your files. This will be part of your data management plan that the cloud provides, ensuring you will not revert back to pack rat status.
Custom Cloud Promotes Organization
The cloud offers ultimate customization of how your files are organized. With unlimited space, you don’t have to worry about creating too many folders or adding more data to the virtual server. With all these customization options, you have the ability to organize your files. Instead of dumping all of your business content into one or two folders, you can create an efficient network map. This means you no longer have to spend ten minutes trying to find a tiny file you saved nine months ago in a random folder. Everything will be easy to access and searchable so you find what you are looking for in seconds.
Transferring Reduces Paper Files
When you move to the cloud, you can say goodbye to your file cabinet. Your cloud provider can help you scan and input paper data onto the cloud. This has multiple benefits. First, you gain data security in case of natural disasters or theft. Second, you won’t have to drive to the office to grab paperwork or take them home with you. You will be able to access your data from anywhere. Third, you get to de-pack rat your office space by getting rid of all your file cabinets and physical data storage options.
No one wants to be a hoarder, including with your business data. Moving to the cloud will help you reduce, eliminate and organize your data to help streamline your business processes.
