Data storage is the baseline of database management. How you store data will determine how convenient access will be for an end-user. For instance, if your business operates a physical server, power fluctuations may limit access to your website files.
This example is why many businesses prefer to have an always accessible and dedicated server for storing data. That is where cloud storage comes in. Are you a small business owner worrying about managing disk space? If you’re seeking greater stability for your company’s colossal amount of data, you’re right on time for an insightful read.
Cloud Storage Defined
Cloud storage involves the management of data centers over the internet and is an innovation of cloud computing. Arguably, it became mainstream in 2006 after Amazon released its Elastic Cloud Compute. Companies can easily save data online anytime and anywhere and with easy access. So, if your company owns a VPS server, you’re already set up for the cloud computing journey.
You can use cloud computing platforms like Workiva or create customized ones to manage data online. Unlike data centers, which require more machinery and space to house increased data volumes, cloud storage only requires an increase in bandwidth for that same amount.
What’s more, depending on the size of data, companies need different investments and expertise to manage their cloud storage systems. For instance, an enterprise plan of AWS might be enough for high schools to manage their web app or student blog. However, for their operating system, a tech giant will likely require millions of dollars worth of technical support staff with years of experience. Nevertheless, both small and large businesses deploy cloud storage for greater transparency and reliability.
Do I need cloud storage for my business?
To answer this question, let’s begin with a hard yes. Generally, due to digital transformation and its prospects for efficiency, the cloud isn’t going away anytime soon. If you have used Google Docs or checked out a profile on Facebook, you have already accessed someone’s cloud storage. So, yes, it’s that inevitable.
Businesses could benefit from cloud storage in one or all of the following specific ways:
Cost Savings
The cost advantage of cloud storage platforms is one of the top reasons businesses take the bold step. Facebook currently has billions of users. Imagine the social platform having to add a new cable and port for every few hundred new users. Imagine the implications for land, machinery, expertise, and ultimately money.
Moving your business to the cloud significantly reduces costs for hardware maintenance of mega data centers. Today, an eCommerce company may not need a massive complex to house the credit card data of its numerous clients. Depending on your choice of service provider, you could even get a cloud storage plan for a lifetime.
Efficiency
Cloud storage may reduce downtime in sorting out large volumes of data. When you can bring up a decade-old file with the click of a button and not have to display folders all over the place, that’s efficiency. With cloud storage, data access becomes hassle-free and efficient. The efficiency of cloud storage over physical machine-based systems also shows when there’s a systems breakdown. In situations where a company’s networked computers are off due to power fluctuations, the productivity of its workforce may threaten profitability massively.
Enhanced Collaboration
Siting your data center at a particular place requires the movement of people every time for data access. Today, multinational companies with a centralized data system may grant permissions to staff worldwide to send, receive and collaboratively perform tasks. Especially in these post-pandemic times, remote working has become an inevitable option. Cloud storage has become the driving force for work now and in the future.
