Updated on June 1, 2022 Are you perplexed by cloud computing? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. The term “the cloud” gets thrown around a lot, but oftentimes, it’s often not properly defined or made clear on how it can be leveraged to help your business succeed. Let’s unravel what cloud computing is, and the numerous benefits that it can provide small businesses, far and wide. What is “The Cloud”? The cloud is made up of servers in data centers globally. It’s where you can store all your data, files, and software digitally, so that you can access it from any computer or device, from anywhere, and at any time. All businesses, small or large, can save money and increase user convenience by switching to cloud computing. As technology advances and its tools have become increasingly sophisticated, cloud computing has become a central way that businesses and users can benefit their day-to-day. Here’s how cloud computing can improve the way your small business operates, including in areas like finances, communications, organization, and eCommerce. Traditional filing vs. cloud storage: Files used to only be accessible at the office. Now with the presence of online cloud storage, files are easily accessible online at any time and anywhere. Traditional banking vs. internet banking: In the past, banking was only accessible by physically going to the bank. With the option of internet banking, anyone can access financial data online via the web, a mobile app, and from anywhere. Some banks have even opted to provide digital banking solutions with no brick-and-mortar shop, such as Tangerine, a subsidiary of Scotiabank. Traditional accounting software vs. cloud accounting software: Traditional desktop software means that your financial information lives solely on your computer or laptop. All your business data is only available at limited times and on limited devices—and often to a limited number of people. With cloud accounting software, you can get financially organized quickly and know that your business’s most important data are stored, protected, and accessible from anywhere. Traditional shopping vs. online shopping: Back then, consumers are only limited to a certain time frame to view and shop. With online shopping (with the help of cloud computing), consumers can now enjoy the accessibility and convenience of shopping within their own homes. Ecommerce shopping is available for everyone at any time, anywhere, and on any device. Traditional mail vs. webmail: Communications were historically done only at the post office. With webmail, anyone can access their email to send communications at any time, from anywhere and on any device. Debunking Cloud Computing Myths On The Internet As beneficial as cloud computing is, there are also frustrations that some might have by switching their business operations to the cloud. Often, these are worries that stem from misunderstanding or confusion, which is why we’ve debunked three key cloud computing myths: Myth #1: What if I lose all my data in the cloud? Your data is actually much safer on the cloud than on your computer. While your laptop or computer can be stolen or lost, cloud data is protected by cloud companies who spend millions on systems and experts to protect your data. Myth #2: What happens when the internet goes down? Does my data go down with it? It’s very rare for the internet to go down these days and even if it does, it’s only for a short period of wait time. During this period, your data remains safe in the cloud. Myth #3: Is cloud computing expensive? You pay for what you use. Other items like upgrades, system maintenance, support fees, or additional hardware, such as backup systems, are not included in these payments. Small Business Benefits of Using The Cloud Truly there are numerous benefits to adopting cloud computing with the main one being access to your data anytime and anywhere. Not only does the cloud break the chain between your office computer and your business information, but the ability to access business-critical data from any device and any location is highly advantageous for all small business owners. Ready to move to the cloud? Start with your small business finances. TrulySmall Accounting allows small business owners to store receipts, invoices, and more in the cloud. Meaning all your financial reports and transaction documents are accessible wherever you are. TrulySmall Accounting also automates all of the redundant accounting tasks so that you can get back to running your business—bringing you peace of mind and saving you time. Try TrulySmall Accounting for free for 14 days to see for yourself!
