Featured article by Sam Gill, Independent Technology Author
Some people refer to cloud-based software as Software as a Service (SaaS). Cloud-based software is a service that allows individuals and organizations to run applications without having to install anything on their computers or to manage a server. To run your business activities, you will just need a computer, an internet browser and a good internet connection. Operating systems, applications, network switches, and servers reside within the cloud.
Perhaps, you have realized that the form of computing is rapidly becoming the normal foundation of IT infrastructures. Even though it is hard to deny its dominance, some industries are more resistant than others are when it comes to embracing it. Some deeply regulated sectors like healthcare, insurance, banking, public utilities, and law firms are adopting the new technology slowly. They are doing that possibly because they have not realized the benefits cloud-based software for businesses provides.
Cloud-based software outweighs the conventional software in several ways. Here are some of the benefits to expect when using it in your business.
Lower overheads
The maintenance, upgrades and the system administration happens in the cloud and there is a person to do the work. Therefore, you will never spend your weekends or nights supervising a failed server or a version upgrade. In fact, cloud-based software costs around 50 percent lesser than the on-premise software.
Easier to access at any time and from any place
Cloud-based software is always on, which means you will be able to access your business information from any place and at any time and support your workers or service teams. When working on various projects – in different locations – your staff or contractors will be able to access the files from any place. Some cloud-based software allows sharing of records with advisers – such as sharing of accounting records with financial advisers or accountants.
Efficient collaboration
With cloud computing, you can collaborate with similar organizations for better communication and sharing of information. Moreover, new business software developers are opting for cloud-based software in place of the in-premise ones. For example, Hoxro LMS is fully cloud based, intuitive Legal Management System specifically designed to make the life of a lawyer more productive. You are able to test drive the system from their Live Demo on Hoxro.com. Legal software like the one aforementioned provides users with the ability to work from any place, collaborate with others and remain in contact with the clients.
Audit trail and compliance
The top cloud software services will provide information about anything happening in your business and therefore they provide a higher level of assurance to the audit teams. Other methods such as paper trails, email conversations are ineffective. Cloud computing replaces them with system tracked authorization, supporting conversations and attached files.
Little IT support required
Cloud-based software is generally plug-and-play. They have established a firm feature-rich platform, which the vendors update on a regular basis. As the user, you will never worry about expensive updates, expensive hardware or power outages interfering with your data. Due to the ease of use and greater security, you will need lesser IT support. SaaS companies depend on their software to make a living. They do nothing else. In other words, they will dedicate all their efforts and resources to ensuring that you have what you want.
Summary
With lower costs and easier installation, cloud-based software is becoming a popular choice. It facilitates audit processes and allows access of information from any place. Moreover, you can collaborate with other business people and learn more about your customers and prospects when running your firm.
About the Author
Sam Gill is a post graduate in MSc Marketing. She has been working as a freelance writer for since 2009 and has produced content for a wide range of businesses and has a passion in particular for technology and business.
