Things to consider before choosing a cloud platform

Cloud based working has become the norm for many business over the past few years for a number of reasons. The implications for simplicity, enhanced productivity and accessibility are a given. But with such a range of providers and services, deciding on where to invest is no mean feat.

Opting to move your business operations to the cloud can do wonders for an organisation. It can help significantly reduce costs, remove the need for in-house IT experts and substantial hardware, and improve security. It can also dramatically enhance workflow due to better accessibility and collaboration between teams..

There is also the added benefit that it actually compliments remote working. In an era when geographical flexibility is become more and more feasible (and attractive), technology that facilitates it is a must. Cloud-based technology empowers remote workers. Cloud platforms allow for remote accessibility of key information and helps enable collaboration.

Why use a Cloud platform?

What makes cloud platforms so attractive for medium sized businesses is that they work to enable growth within an organisation by eliminating the need to focus on time consuming and potentially stressful concerns such as security, maintenance and backup. Cloud computing means that professionals can rest easy and concentrate on what matters, knowing that  IT support is ready and on hand when it is needed.

If you’re in the market for a cloud platform, there are a few things you should consider before investing:

Which cloud services are you likely to require in the long term?

Understanding which types of cloud services that they provide will obviously be important. But you shouldn’t just look at these services from the point of view of what you need right now. Consider what services you are likely to need further down the line when growth permits. You may be able to find a provider who offers these services as add-ons. For example, basic data storage is great but is there a chance you may require cloud computing services such as virtual networking infrastructure in the future?

How easy is setup for your needs and what level of customer service can be expected?

An easy setup process should be desirable for any cloud service. The ability to easily configure your account for your organisation is essential. Customer support should be first rate as you will be trusting a substantial amount of your data with the platform. Be sure to understand and acknowledge the level of technical support alongside the average response time for customer service.

Do they have a poor history of downtime?

Cloud outages are not only disruptive but they can also be very expensive. Cloud providers that repeatedly experience periods of inaccessibility should be avoided, so be sure you know the downtime history of each cloud provider you consider.

How is security monitored and measured?

Clearly security should be top priority for you, as it should also be for the cloud provider. Be sure you know where the data centre is and how safe and protected it is. Take time to read and understand the supplier’s security standards for customer access and privacy.

How do the company address potential data losses?

This is a worst case scenario, but you need to know how the issue of data losses will be rectified. What systems/agreements do they have in place that mitigate the risks of data loss and how would they compensate for data losses? Ensure you ask questions about what provisions are in place to mitigate against potential data loss as this has major implications for the ability of your business to continue trading should such a loss be incurred.

How artificial intelligence will affect future business

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been integrated into much of our daily lives. So much so that often we are unaware of it and its impact. Whilst there is scope for further development in AI technology, the implications for different businesses and sectors is enormous. It will continue to revolutionise how business is conducted in the future.

If we look at AI developments over the past decade, it is obvious that future business will be shaped dramatically by AI technology. The tech is constantly developing and improving, with new applications constantly being integrated into our everyday. Robotics have become more innovative and autonomous. AI is being implemented in sectors where previously not considered either possible or necessary.

The impact of AI will be dependent on the sector in which it is used. Although there is only so far we can go in predicting the future, the increasing uses of AI enables us to speculate more readily than ever before.

With that in mind, here are some of the ways that future business could be impacted going forward.

Financial Services & Law

Artificial intelligence has been instrumental in helping make use of data to extract valuable information. It enables us to analyse data trends at lightning fast speed when compared to the human brain. In the legal world one example of how this has been used is to filter trends to show patterns in criminal behaviour. Plus DNA and finger print matching databases have become ever more sophisticated enabling unsolved cold cases to be solved.

Data extraction is also an exciting potential for AI. In financial services businesses are embracing AI solutions which enable them to make smarter investment choices. Algorithms and analytics are now a integral part of trading, economic analysis and forecasting.

Manufacturing

Robotics have a been a staple in the world of manufacturing for some time now already. Yet we will continue to see something of a change in how they are used and the intricacies of tasks that they can complete.

In the world of manufacturing, health and safety is of utmost importance. Already artificial intelligence is having a positive effect on how safely and positively robotics technology can be used alongside traditional workers. As the technology becomes more  widespread the demand for the production of intricate AI robotics will grow.

Healthcare

Artificial intelligence has already made a huge impact in the healthcare sector in terms of diagnosis, decision making, data capture and data analysis. Moreover, artificially intelligent robotics have a huge capacity to undertake complex and intricate procedures in healthcare. One example is IBM’s Watson computer which is being used by oncologists to diagnose cancer in patients and provide a tailored treatment plan.

Customer Services

Finally, customer services is becoming increasingly AI driven. Already social networks are offering businesses access to chat-bots that can answer a number of predetermined queries for customers. Beyond that, some smart systems are able to answer customer questions with such accuracy that they aren’t even aware they aren’t talking to a real person

Just how secure is the cloud? (Spoiler: Very.)

One of the most important considerations for all businesses is security of information and networks. With the revolution in cloud technologies and services, there has been much discussion about security in comparison to traditional IT networks and server technology.

Cloud based technologies have had their share of press particularly in relation to security aspects. What is important is to weigh up the facts and fiction relating to security. Maybe some concerns in the past have been justified. But as cloud technology has developed many of these issues have been rectified.

It would now seem that data and apps held in the cloud could actually be more secure than traditional local server and network technology. Security and privacy issues have always been a major concern for many organisations. They’re also the greatest worries blocking cloud technology adoption. Many organisations feel that if they do not control their data and tech themselves it leaves their systems open to security breaches.

Read on to see if these fears are still well founded and find out why the cloud is actually more secure now than ever!

Data storage and security

Security wise, the physical location of where data is stored is much less important than how it is accessed. The same principle applies to cloud based and traditional storage systems. Whilst web application attacks are targeted at both Cloud and on-site environments, the on-site systems have been shown to suffer far more incidents and attacks than the cloud. So the argument that these systems leads to security breaches because you don’t own them is simply a myth.

Cloud based platforms actually perform better in avoiding attacks.  They are constructed to be more robust and secure to ensue they work effectively and securely for their clients.  Traditional systems don’t have that same focus. They are likely to be administered by network technicians who have less knowledge, expertise and up to date resources. On-site systems are simply not as secure and are therefore more vulnerable to more frequent and more catastrophic attacks.

Attackers exploit weaknesses

It has been well reported that attackers know and will exploit the systems with the weakest security. On site environments serving one organisation are less likely to upgrade their firewall security or invest in the latest technology. However, cloud providers must do so for all their clients as they serve a wider number of businesses and operate vastly larger systems.

How can you ensure cloud security for your business?

You should really focus less on the geographical location of data and systems and more on how easy it is to access them. You need to know what data and systems could be vulnerable and the level of security required to safeguard them.

Cloud based computing is often more secure than traditional systems. You should still ensure you understand how a system works in relation to location and data access prior to investing. However, cloud based systems do provide additional security layers against attacks and vulnerabilities than traditional local based technology.

Reasons to consider remote working

More and more companies have workers who work remotely. Now more than ever, organisations are embracing the benefits of remote working for their employees and their company. It enables workers a greater level of control over how they work and increases their motivation and job satisfaction. This in turn leads to an exponential increase in productivity rates. However, many companies are still averse to offering employees the flexibility to carry out their tasks in flexible geographic locations. So, what are the reasons to consider remote working?

Remote working enables employees to be flexible about where they carry out their day to day duties. Whether employees decide to skype into the office from a remote desert island or their bedroom at home, it makes little difference so long as they have an active internet link and can access the files and applications which they require to do their job.

When we talk about remote working, it’s important to note that we are not necessarily talking about a finite thing. Sometimes remote working means being permanently away from an organisation’s headquarters, whereas in other cases it may just mean working from home once or twice a week.

Remote working is a big topic of conversation right now, because of the development of cloud based software enabling remote workers as much functionality at home as in the office. Moreover, project management and task tracking software also monitors key deliverables.

Encourages good communication

Remote working has been shown to actively encourage better communication between employees. Working remotely out of the office doesn’t mean that employees are not in contact with one another. On the contrary, remote workers often make a concerted effort to be available and are able to do so by connecting via phone, skype, email and other messenger options and chat apps. Such communication may not occur so naturally whilst in the office.

Results in happier workers

Choice, freedom and flexibility for workers to choose where and how they want to work results in happier workers. Being able to work flexibly is something that employees relish. Organising your own workflow and work-life balance is something which leads to higher productivity levels.

Reduces employee stress

Remote working gives employees more freedom to work to their own timetable, reducing stress levels by working at their own time and pace. This has a knock-on effect to the total business and by reducing stress and unhappiness in the office, it also leads to an overall improvement in office health and wellbeing.

Reduce office costs

Remote working also frees up office space and reduces energy usage. As a result, companies are free to invest this additional capital into other business activities, such as marketing and recruitment of new employees who can take advantage of the free desk space.

Cloud services are now a no-brainer. Our cloud solutions and managed IT support services are complemented by unrivalled customer care. We help you create an infrastructure where remote working across technology can be easily maintained.

Cloud computing terms – what do they even mean?

Cloud computing has become the mantra in businesses worldwide. It has revolutionised data storage and access. It has also improved the ability of organisations to work remotely, network and collaborate. However, many organisations don’t know some of the terms. If you want to brush up on cloud computing jargon read on!

Cloud computing is here to stay so it’s time to get to grips with a few buzzwords. Whilst lots of us can use it, we might not know the professional terms or what they mean. So to talk the talk about the cloud here’s a guide!

Storage-as-a-service

This is probably the most used aspect of the cloud – storing data and files remotely. It’s the foundation of what cloud computing can do for us to make remote working commonplace. Storage as a service gives a flexible way to increase storage and scale your business upwards when you need to. It’s also offers foolproof backup and recovery should disaster happen so you can have a full mirror image of your files restored. Great for businesses of all sizes as it takes care of your core working and lets staff collaborate remotely and easily.

Database-as-a-service

With Database-as-a-service you can tap and use a remotely hosted database even if you neither own nor host it. DbaaS saves on hardware, installation time and software configuration as well as maintenance costs. The database will function as though it is locally stored, allowing you to do everything from setting up tables, adding, extracting and deleting data. It has higher performance than a locally stored database and is easy to scale, removing worries about backups and recovery.

Application-as-a-service/Software-as-a-service

Commonly known as SaaS, Application-as-a-service is an application which is delivered via the internet direct to end users, primarily through a browser. These are often the most common cloud-computing services used by enterprise today, and include services such as Google Docs and Salesforce CRM.

Platform-as-a-service

Platform-as-a-service or PaaS is a category of cloud computing services that provides a full-service platform for users to develop, run and manage applications. The advantage of PaaS is that users can develop and test apps remotely without having to build and maintain the infrastructure associated with app and software development. It’s a virtual go-to shop for users who build and deploy apps and is great for remote collaboration.

Security-as-a-service

Security-as-a-service (SECaaS) refers to systems that enable delivery of core security services via the internet. This can be anything from business continuity disaster recovery right through to email security, encryption, identity and access management and data loss prevention. As a service, it has the potential to prevent a lot of headaches and downtime for business and will cut costs of a multitude of other security solutions.

Testing-as-a-service

Testing-as-a-service (TaaS) gives users the power to test local or cloud-delivered systems using remotely hosted software and services. It allows for applications to be tested without having to purchase test servers or testing software. A great way to cut costs and solve your testing problems efficiently. There are also a range of testing services under this umbrella including mobile testing as a service, and security testing as a service to name a couple.

Infrastructure-as-a-service

Infrastructure-as-a-service model means that a third party hosts all your infrastructure for your organisation. This means that hardware, software, servers, storage and other infrastructure constituents are hosted on behalf of the organisation. Using the IaaS model enables  businesses to be more scalable as demands grow or reduce. There is a big advantage in terms of saving on time for maintenance, backup, security monitoring, and reduced capital costs.

Essential time-saving apps for SMEs

Running a medium-sized business efficiently can be a daunting task, especially where your position means you have to take on many different roles. Luckily there are vast numbers of productivity apps devoted to helping SME professionals optimise their time resource. If you’re struggling to co-ordinate your business tasks and would like some inside information about which time saving apps are best, read on!

Managing a business can be a very time-consuming commitment. It requires a lot of time and energy to ensure that crucial tasks are not forgotten. Being able to prioritise is not an easy ask when the buck stops with you and you have to deal with all the little details of running your business. Knowing the right tools to keep track of your work, tasks and finances can make a world of difference.

There are many productivity apps that can help here. The irony is that you probably don’t have the time to try them all out for yourself. So to make it easier, here is our run-down of essential time-saving apps for SMEs.

Asana

Developed by Facebook co-founder Dustin Moskovitz and ex-engineer Justin Rosenstein this app focuses in on improving employee productivity using social networks.  Asana is a web and mobile application which allows teams to keep track their own tasks and those of their colleagues. At its heart is collaboration, allowing teams to create a custom workspace for different projects, each with separate tasks and due dates as well as a tick box function where users can follow, comment, tag and upload attachments and other resources.

Trello

Trello is a project management app that allows you to keep track team workflows. It uses “cards” which represent different tasks and shows their status. You can add users, attachments, comments, due dates and checklists as well as resources to these cards. It’s great for managers who want to manage but don’t want to pester their teams.

My Minutes

My Minutes is a real eye opener. This is a really simple app which brings transparency to what you do with your time and how you waste it. It helps you to take control of the amount of time you waste on other tasks when you should be focussed on something else. You can set simple, achievable goals in the shape of time-constraints, e.g. “research new prospecting techniques for 30 minutes”. A great tool for remote workers and freelancers who work alone and get distracted by tv or facebook!

Slack

Slack is the professional instant messaging platform that is used by teams across the globe. It is the ideal way to encourage communication between team members within your organisation, and allows you to organise conversations on certain points into public channels in one space. It also makes it much easier for team members to share files and images quickly and avoids having to check a load of other different apps and platforms for updates. Great for teams and remote workers alike.  Slack is one thing it’s not!

Pushover

Pushover is a great app for medium sized businesses who have multiple phones and devices to keep track of. It sends push notifications to a chosen smartphone that organises messages and notifications into one specific place. Great for those who are hotdesking and aren’t always in the office to keep in the loop.

RescueTime

RescueTime is ideal for SME professionals who find themselves getting distracted easily. It breaks down where you spend your overall time across applications and websites and holds you accountable. You can the set productivity goals and limits to the amount of time you spend on each of these. It’s great for remote workers and anyone who wants to get out the door at 4 as opposed to 5.30!