July 28, 2020

Enabling Business Development with Cloud Technology

Cloud connectivity allows us to approach business activities differently, from managing data and operational processes more effectively to providing access to all areas of the business remotely. A solution that was once a luxury has become a necessity - and a reliable connectivity source and provider is essential.

Streamlining business processes

Businesses can use cloud technology to streamline their processes in a cost-effective, reliable way. It also gives organisations the flexibility to scale their operations without incurring additional costs. You can easily change an existing structure or remove elements at the click of a button – no additional labour or physical infrastructure is needed. The same applies to updates and upgrades, which means that you don’t need to pay more to maintain your solution.

Cloud-enabled businesses can access their resources from any location with a secure network. This means that lost or stolen devices no longer pose such big security or business continuity risk to companies as the data is stored in the cloud. To ensure that important documents and data remain safe and secure, regular data back-ups need to become a business-standard. 

Cloud technology and connectivity

Cloud connectivity relies on a fast and stable connection. In South Africa, poor infrastructure has always been an obstacle. However, investments that provide affordable Internet solutions, which rely on minimal infrastructure, should help. 

Giving everyone access to the Internet gives them the chance to access information through a global network that would otherwise be unavailable. This will empower them to better their lives through online education and give them insight into a world beyond South African borders. 

However, this global connectivity network poses several threats – especially to people who are still getting used to a digital world. It is up to industry leaders to ensure people are educated on the potential risks associated with online networking while providing them with the tools to keep them safe. 

This is especially true with cyberattacks becoming more prominent. In 2019, South Africa experienced R2.2 billion in losses due to cyberattacks, with a large number of these cases linked to mobile banking fraud.  

A solution that fits your needs

Implementing cloud connectivity has its own set of challenges. From ensuring online security to customising the approach to fit your business needs, it's important to make sure that you work with an ICT provider that can offer a tailor-made, cost-effective solution. 

Factors to consider when implementing your solution include:

  • The size of your team
  • Your industry
  • Managing back-ups
  • Keeping data secure
  • Planning the migration

Monitoring and managing your cloud service needs to be an ongoing process as it will allow you to find areas for improvement and ways to improve business efficiency. 

Innovative solutions are required for organisations to remain operational and relevant during the digital age. Continuous investment is, therefore, necessary to build a stable infrastructure – one that can support Internet-based cloud solutions, encourage out of the box thinking and foster some much-needed growth.

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