Getting started in the cloud

Starting something new can be scary.

When we’re afraid of doing something new it helps to recognize aspects of it that are already familiar. That helps put the newness in perspective.

So what are you already familiar with in the cloud?

Are you using a personal online email account like Outlook.com, Gmail or Yahoo Mail? Moving your business email services to the cloud is really just a step up from these, not a whole new unknown thing to learn.

Do you use any services like Dropbox, Box and Google Drive to save stuff when you’re away from home? These file syncing sites all have business applications that are just another step up from what you are familiar with already.

Have you ever looked at a Google Doc online? You can use Google for business office document production, calendars, email etc. Even Microsoft’s Office products are online now with Office 365. Same face different place.

Worried about security? Just because you are working online doesn’t automatically mean things aren’t secure. Many businesses are working from the cloud now so there are systems in place to ensure security is maintained (as long as you’re working with a reputable provider). In fact you don’t have the risks associated with local premises: break-ins, fire and flooding etc.

It’s time to look into moving your business to the cloud. What comes next?

That depends: what do you want to do? What functions are currently based on your in-house computer system?

• Do you use a file server or is everything saved to individual computers? Either way you can store ALL those files online. Why? Imagine you are working on something essential for a client but are stuck in the dentist’s waiting room. This isn’t down-time which you need to stress about making up for when you get back to the office – if you have mobile data access or wi-fi access you can continue working while you wait. Two birds, one stone.
• Not only are you files stored online, you have file backup sorted – no more worrying about fire risks, flood damage etc. If anything happens to your computers you can be up and running again with all your critical data intact!
• Do software updates give you nightmares? With cloud computing your ‘programs’ are all online and kept up to date by the service provider. Changes to software via cloud tend to be more incremental. You won’t have to make the choice between software that is familiar-out-of-date, or new-but-unfamiliar.
• Email, contacts and calendars can be accessed anywhere rather than just when you are in the office. So you can enjoy the beach for another day but still deal with the questions clients are sending you.
• Up to date information sharing: whenever you need a co-worker to look over something you won’t need to close the file and email it to them to allow them access- you can both be looking at it.
• Yes, even your accountancy work can be cloud based (thank you Xero!)
• There are cost benefits: cloud computing is more like renting a house rather than saving enough to buy one- the costs are spread throughout the year.

Here at Aerorock we’ll work with you to find the best solutions for YOUR needs, so that you can focus on your business instead of struggling with technology.

We will spend time with you helping you find the right cloud solutions to run your business, moving you from your current system to the cloud and keep supporting you once you are up and running. Help will be only a key-press away.

Time to get rid of the monsters under the bed.