Using cloud technology for reporting

Moving from traditional software to the cloud brings down IT expenses. It removes the need to source and maintain hardware, upgrade computers, or reinvest into the latest infrastructure and equipment as automatic updates run seamlessly in the background, managed by the provider. 

Cloud reporting tools, as with any activities associated with the cloud, pave the way for easier collaborations. Everyone with the correct credentials can access information from anywhere and from any device. All that is needed for such accessibility is a device that can connect to the internet and the cloud to access the data. 

Organisations don’t have to worry about buying software and installing it on new computers. This is a time-consuming process and an expensive one. With a subscription to a cloud, when the number of people using the network increases, they automatically have access to the latest software. This increases efficiency, saves time, and results in savings. 

When information is based on local infrastructure, an incident such as a massive power outage or a natural disaster can result in immediate data loss. When data is based in the cloud, it is stored off-premises and access continues unhindered. 

Cloud computing inherently comes with the freedom of flexibility. This is beneficial especially to smaller businesses that can’t afford to invest heavily in cloud infrastructure. With the cloud, they can subscribe and increase capacity as needed. This also allows for phased growth, without significant financial commitment because if a larger project is signed on, companies can simply take on more infrastructure and then let it go when the project is complete. 

Administration of IT infrastructure is a full-time job, and it can be time consuming and repetitive. When this work is handed over to the cloud, it frees up administrators to handle other important work more efficiently. Their time is spent on constructive tasks with no delays. 

When data is based on off-premises servers, the business is dependent on the service provider to ensure data security and as such does not have complete control over their data.  

Cloud service providers offer clients a range of features. However, these may be insufficient if an organisation is looking to amend features specific to its requirements. This is one of the key reasons companies hesitate to move to the cloud. There is a limit to customisation options as service providers cater to numerous clients with all-in-one solutions.   

This could be a deterrent to shifting to the cloud as a lack of reliable internet connectivity and bandwidth can defeat the whole purpose of remote working. Additionally, access to the database is never direct, but through a web-based application programming interface (API), which could put further pressure on the connection if bandwidth is already constricted. 

A service provider is a business, and like all businesses faces the danger of becoming insolvent, especially if a major client pulls out. When choosing a provider, you must ensure that the service provider has a backup system in place with a third party. This is a major consideration that must be explored when researching potential providers.