As business technology continues to evolve, more and more companies are turning to the cloud for their data storage needs. Cloud storage offers many benefits to businesses, including convenience, security and efficiency. Through the cloud, businesses can store their data securely while simultaneously making it accessible to employees in remote locations anywhere. The cloud also increases the speed at which data can be shared and transferred, and it allows employees more time to work on other important tasks, such as customer service and product improvement.
Common Problems with Cloud Integration
Embracing any new technological pursuit comes with challenges to an operation, its employees and its IT department. In spite of all its benefits, the incorporation of the cloud has not been without certain obstacles. Here we’ll examine some of the most common problems facing those who may be considering a cloud-based storage program:
· Corporate Culture:
One of the most significant obstacles to cloud integration is an established corporate culture. In many companies, management and employees alike are resistant to incorporating new technologies like cloud computing simply because they’re used to doing things another way. Change can be uncomfortable, and adapting to the cloud will present a learning curve when everyone is already accustomed to the way the current system works.
· Security Concerns:
Although the cloud can provide exceptional data security, breaches are always a possibility. Some businesses avoid using the cloud because they’re afraid their sensitive data will be compromised when they’re no longer responsible for protecting it.
· Provider Issues:
Not all cloud providers are created equal. Some providers offer better services and pricing than others. However, before moving to the cloud, it can be difficult to determine which cloud storage provider can best meet a business’s needs.
· Loss of Control:
In some cases, companies don’t want to incorporate cloud computing because they aren’t comfortable losing control over their data. Companies may fear that the provider will lose the data to server failure, that it won’t organize the data properly or that the provider won’t be able to manage the data as effectively as an internal IT team could.
Finding Effective Solutions
To begin reaping the many benefits of cloud computing, businesses must face their fears and make the move. However, companies can also take steps before and during integration to deal with their most important concerns. For example, if a business is avoiding cloud computing because of corporate culture, it can alleviate anxieties by teaching employees about the cloud and how it will change the workplace before it’s incorporated. If the company is concerned with security or other provider issues, it can form a team to research various providers’ reputations and determine which are the most reliable. Finally, if the company is hesitant to give up control over its data, cloud computing can be integrated gradually.
Businesses that take advantage of cloud computing will ultimately enjoy better efficiency. However, taking the first step can be frightening, especially if the business has serious concerns. By addressing these concerns directly, the business can ease anxiety, solve problems before they arise and facilitate a smooth transition to the cloud.
