January 27, 2014
Cloud technology has the ability to benefit businesses of all sizes, but the effects will be more substantial for small businesses. To understand some of these benefits, read 5 Benefits Cloud Storage Providers Offer Businesses. In this blog however, we’ll focus on the specific features that allow small businesses to implement this technology cost-effectively.
For many small businesses, adopting new technology solutions take time to develop. Often times this is not by choice. Many solutions, cloud included, are typically targeted to appealing to the widest audience and largest potential customers. As time passes these solutions become more affordable or additional offerings are created specifically for small and mid-sized businesses.
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) is one cloud technology solution that has evolved and added features that make it not only affordable, but ideal for small businesses.
IaaS
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) provides the networking resources all businesses need. It extends far beyond storage space and backup, which are the common features associated with cloud computing. IaaS can include hardware, networking, security, software applications and yes, storage and backup. These services can also include monitoring and maintenance of your infrastructure. If any problem were to occur, your IaaS providers are there to support you through the issue, repair or adjust and get you up and running again quickly.
Benefits of IaaS Technology Solution
Apart from the obvious benefits, IT support and cloud computing resources, IaaS offers some significant benefits for small businesses. These benefits allow small and mid-sized businesses to implement cloud technology solutions and operate on the same technology foundation as enterprise level corporations.
#1 – Customizable
Only add the resources and tools your business needs to your IaaS program. Many technology solutions are “all or nothing” or it costs more to have certain services excluded. For example, cable TV services. Most often you can’t pick and choose exactly which channels to have on your plan, and you are technically paying for some channels you will never watch. Although not a perfect example, we hope this gives you the general picture.
IaaS providers offer customizable programs so you are not paying for space or services you won’t use. They will work with you to determine which resources are best for your business operations and you pay for only the IaaS technology solution options you use.
#2 – Adjustable
Paying for what you don’t need is a waste, and can consume resources that could be allocated elsewhere. For this reason, IaaS programs are designed to be scalable and adjust to your growth or other operational changes. Cloud service providers have the resources on hand to support any of your business changes on demand. This feature ensures you only pay for what you need, when you need it.
#3 – Cost-Effective
Scalability makes IaaS programs cost-effective for small businesses, but this isn’t the only efficiency IaaS technology solutions provide. First, your business will use a pay-per-use model which has the potential create significant savings in the long-run.
In addition, transitioning your in-house IT infrastructure to IaaS also replaces your capital expenses with operational expenses. This will improve cash flow and save capital for other strategic investments.
Cloud technology solutions are built for businesses of all sizes, but provide significant advantages for small businesses. To learn more about IaaS services, talk to a Marco Cloud Specialist.
Sources:
http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/what-is-infrastructure-as-a-service-iaas-in-cloud-.html
