Are Cloud-based apps for real?

The first thing to do is assess what type of application your business needs.

• Do you need an app to create, monitor, and manage tasks?

• Do you need an app to send invoices and manage your accounting?

• Do you need a calendaring app to keep track of events, send out RSVPs, and increase time management.

Once you figure out your needs you can start looking at different Cloud app marketplaces that offer a wide selection of Cloud-based apps for whatever category you are interested in. From there, most Cloud app providers offer a free trial that you can sign up for to test the app and make sure it provides the features you need. If you like the app, you keep it and pay a monthly or yearly rate for as many users as you need. If you don’t, simply cancel it and try another Cloud app or Cloud Service Provider.

The Cloud and Cloud-based apps are useable by anyone with a Web-enabled device and an Internet connection. Regardless of your industry, and whether you have 2 employees or 2,000, there are Cloud apps for every business type. Most Cloud-based applications require minimal IT knowledge and are set up for you by the Cloud provider. Additionally, many Cloud apps can be customized to meet the needs of your business. You can add storage, extra support, or any other amenity you may need to successfully run your business.

One way to think of Cloud Security is to compare it to money in your wallet vs. money in the bank. Think of your files and data as money. Money that is kept in your wallet is susceptible to being lost or stolen from you. On the other hand, money that is kept in a bank is securely stored and cannot be lost. Also, in the unlikely event of a bank robbery, the bank is responsible for making sure that all of your funds are still available to you.

The same can be said of Cloud app security. If you manage your own files and keep them stored in a local computer, anyone can go in and steal that information or your computer could fall victim to some natural disaster. However, when your files are stored in the Cloud, the Cloud providers will make sure that the servers are equipped with firewall security, backups, and disaster recovery. The number one concern of any Cloud app provider is security.