How to Improve Operational Efficiencies With Cloud Computing

How to Improve Operational Efficiencies With Cloud Computing

Author:huonit

Under a constant barrage of obstacles, from economic pressures and resource shortages through to outdated systems and time-poor staff, organisations face unrelenting pressure to do more with less.

However in order to direct time, effort and funds toward the core of their business, organisations must first lay the foundations for efficient administration and operational functions.

Smart technology has the potential to reduce costs and streamline interactions both internally and externally, to ultimately improve the effectiveness of your services.

Understanding Cloud Computing

This potential can be reached by taking advantage of the efficiencies that Virtualisation & Cloud Computing can offer. In simple terms, Cloud Computing lets you run your IT system on infrastructure located anywhere, managed by anyone – and simply access it through the internet.

Clouds run on virtualisation technology, meaning systems are not reliant upon single servers or disks which may fail at any moment. Instead, they run on an interchangeable, elastic pool of resources which have no single points of failure – meaning better performance, less risk of downtime, and greater flexibility as your needs change.

In simple terms, the Cloud simplifies IT. It requires less support, less hardware, less software licenses, and helps the environment. The cost structure also means that organisations can reduce long term capital investments and instead fund IT through a scalable, operational model.

Does Cloud Computing mean losing control?

While Cloud computing has reached fever pitch over the past few years, there still remains a common misconception around its security. Many believe that running your systems in the cloud means trusting strangers with your data and losing control of your systems; however that doesn\'t have to be the case.

Many organisations choose to build their own cloud, which may either be housed on your premises or managed at a data centre by your own team. Even if you do share resources such as storage space with other parties, your network and data remains completely private.

What it means for your organisation:

•    Better utilisation of resources
•    Lower IT support requirements
•    Frees up storage as data is stored centrally, reducing duplication
•    Fast scalability to suit changing workloads
•    Shift focus from IT to innovation
How to get started?

When it comes to Cloud Computing, the best way to start is by getting independent advice from a CIO Advisory Service. While there are ‘off the shelf\' hosting services available, a strategic IT advisor will analyse and compare the cost, performance and security options between solutions so you have a clear understanding of your options.

Whether you choose to build your own Cloud, or engage a provider to host your systems, you can look forward to flexibility, scalability and long term savings for your business.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/software-articles/how-to-improve-operational-efficiencies-with-cloud-computing-6146959.html

About the Author

Damian Huon is a business technology strategist with over 20 years experience advising Australia\'s leading organisations. As CEO and founder of Huon IT, Damian and his team achieve business outcomes for professional service organisations with ‘everything technology\'.