The cloud has revolutionised business
No doubt that one of the biggest disruptors of business within the last decade has been cloud technology. Cloud computing revolutionised business by essentially giving users access to applications and data wherever they have internet, which let’s face it, today is pretty much everywhere.
With technological advancements evolving quicker than ever before, it’s no secret that the business climate is also facing change at a relentless pace, so it’s vital that small businesses can access applications and data, right when they need it. Of course, this must include access via desktops, tablets, smartphones, and in the office, in cafes or during commutes. The cloud helps facilitates the business innovations that are changing the face of business.
A new era of working
In fact, it facilitated a whole new era of working. A ‘gig economy’ of freelancers, entrepreneurs and startups that can work from anywhere without the need to invest in large storage or office space has emerged. In turn, this has changed the psychology of the workplace altogether, with employees looking for this level of flexibility in their roles, and subsequently increased trust from employers allowing their staff to work from anywhere.
The technology facilitating this
As well as creating this shift, cloud tech itself helped businesses and freelancers alike become more efficient. Cloud-based document sharing is the fundamental backbone of modern business today and is considered standard practice. And it’s not just business processes as a whole that benefits, but the everyday employee benefits from the ease, performance and productivity of cloud document sharing. The availability and accessibility of cloud-based storage, including free platforms such as Google Drive, has further facilitated the culture of the ‘cafe startup entrepreneur’.
Unified communications
There are platforms which run from the cloud which support a flexible working culture suitable for all businesses. Unified cloud communication systems aid productivity amongst a team as it allows employers and staff to all use one platform, rather than using disparate communications systems across the business.
The productivity benefits of using one system for phone calls, instant messaging, conferencing and video calls should be obvious; principally this saves time on endless chasing to see who is available and ensures that colleagues have the right software installed. Of course, the efficiency in an organisation is increased by staff being able to instantly see the availability of others, but unified communications systems have other benefits too. Often UC systems can be used to monitor workflow and how productively people are working, all vital processes supporting a healthy and trusting agile working environment.
Not just productivity: HR benefits
Don’t think that cloud technology has just been beneficial from a productivity perspective though, HR has also benefited from the advancements in cloud tech. Using cloud technology means that HR professionals and managers can use this technology to share sensitive documents to do with people management, such as CVs and employee’s personal details. This also includes cloud systems to manage payroll, talent acquisition and data management.
Security considerations
One concern with cloud technology over the years is that it is not secure. This is often heightened by mass media coverage of high-level security breaches. In fact, due to security advancements in cloud technology, all data is end-to-end encrypted which means data is more secure on cloud networks than ever. It’s so safe in fact that using cloud systems such as UC means that it’ll be easier to adhere to legislation of GDPR, aiding the protection of sensitive information ahead of May.
Adopting cloud technology is not only critical for facilitating efficiency and productivity across the workforce, but progressive businesses will have to increasingly adapt all their processes to incorporate cloud-based practises to succeed in the climate today.
About the Author
Alex Tebbs is Founder of VIA. Flexible working is transforming the way progressive companies operate. Newly designed workplaces, breakout areas, and remote working are giving employees the freedom to choose the best workspace for them. Through VIA’s UC products, their mission is to give organisations the tools to revolutionise communications across their operations.
