Cloud computing is a modern wonder and is used often for a number of purposes in the workplace. With my growing business needs, it’s something I have had to start paying much more attention to. If you are looking to make some true changes to the way you work as a business or an individual this year, switching to cloud computing may just be the ideal way to do it.
There are lots of ways to utilize the cloud in technology. Whether you use it for storage, to Collaborate through the cloud, or for backups; cloud computing is a useful tool and one that has a lot of potential for good. There are some people who are still not sure what “The Cloud” is so let’s start with a basic definition.
I like the one used in PC Magazine back in 2016. “ In the simplest terms, cloud computing means storing and accessing data and programs over the Internet instead of your computer’s hard drive. The cloud is just a metaphor for the Internet.” As long as you have an online connection, you can access your data anytime, anywhere. Now, let’s take a look at some of the most common uses of cloud computing and how they can help you.
Scalable Usage
The great thing about cloud computing is that it can be used by anyone for any purpose. No matter whether you are using the cloud to store personal files or using them for a business, you can scale the cost to your needs. For example, Google Drive offers 15GB storage for free for any member, and this is useful for individuals or small businesses. If you wanted to up the storage to something larger there are several stages and you can decide if and when you need it.
Chatbots
A chatbot sounds a little old fashioned, but when you think of bots such as Siri and Alexa, you can see how a chatbot is useful for us today. When using the cloud, there are expanding capabilities that allow the cloud to store your preferences. These capabilities can integrate with the use of chatbots around the home and office. Being able to collect more information about you, services can be tailored to suit you and your needs.
Connection
We all want to be able to connect with the people around us. One of the most effective ways to connect with those who are far away is cloud services. Whatsapp and Skype are both cloud-based and with them, you can reach family and friends anywhere in the world within seconds.
Productivity
One of the most well-known and utilized uses of cloud computing is the creation, editing, and collaboration of documents. Both Office 365 and Google Drive offer different applications to allow users to create word documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. These tools are used widely and are useful for personal and professional use. I use it almost daily with many of the projects I work on. The great thing about these tools is that they allow more than one person to view and edit a document at the same time providing a sense of teamwork as well as saving time on file creation.
Backups
The most popular use for cloud computing for all is to provide a backup of important data and files. Every device you use for your personal and business use RAM, Random Access Memory. This memory is limited and often not enough to provide you with what you need. This is why using cloud storage can be helpful and allows you to securely store items online. It’s also a great idea to back up the data on your computer to the cloud once in a while. Not only will this keep your documents safe, but it will ensure that if anything happens to your devices such as hacking or theft, you won’t lose all of your hard work.
When I first started my business, I never thought I would want to even think about using “The Cloud”. Technology was, and in many ways, still isn’t my thing. However, now, I can’t see operating a business without the Cloud, especially without Google Drive. If you haven’t incorporated it into your business strategy, you might just want to reconsider. Here’s to YOUR success!
Carolyn R. Owens has over 25 years of proven experience and serves as a Career Strategist, Leadership and Life Coach. She is the Chairwoman and CEO of Infinity Coaching, Inc. where they help you up-level your skills so you can up-level your income. Infinity Coaching, Inc. provides one-on-one and group coaching, organizational training, and personality assessments. Carolyn is certified to give both The Energy Leadership Index Assessment and Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) Assessment. You can find out more about both assessments and other products and services at https://infinitycoaching.net.
