It sometimes feels like people throw the word “revolutionised” around a little too liberally. However, with cloud computing, the term is apt. Cloud technology has thoroughly transformed the way we work, creating scope for more freedom, flexibility, and adaptability in the work environment. Enhanced productivity has been a natural byproduct of the cloud computing “revolution.” And nowhere is this more evident than in the remote work model.
How does cloud computing increase productivity exactly? When your system is accessible at any time from anywhere in the world, many of the holdups and bottlenecks that stifle productivity are automatically eliminated. However, the relationship between cloud computing and productivity is far more nuanced than that. With that in mind, let’s take a tour through the topic and establish some easy actions you can take to make the most of this powerful technology.
Cloud Computing: The Driving Force Behind Remote Work
Since the arrival of the first commercial cloud service in 2006 (thanks, Amazon), cloud computing has enjoyed speedy growth. In 2024, Gartner anticipates global spending on cloud services will increase by around 20%, arriving at a total of $678.8 billion by the end of the year. This statistic underscores the boundless potential of the cloud. However, it also places yet another responsibility on the shoulders of business owners.
To remain competitive, business owners must expedite their transition to this new computing paradigm. This has already been happening across all industries, the shift driven by new business goals and priorities, including corporate agility, cyber security, and remote work management. As companies around you migrate to highly efficient cloud networks, the pressure to stay ahead of the trend (or at least in step with it) will only increase.
Thankfully, this responsibility isn’t one you have to shoulder alone. Indeed, to ensure your cloud setup is perfectly secure and suitable for your unique business needs, you shouldn’t go it alone. Whether you opt for in-house IT management or a custom-designed cloud package from a managed services provider like Invotec, it’s vital that you have expert support every step of the way. Get the right IT team on your side, and you’ll have taken the most important step toward unlocking the powerful productivity potential of the cloud.
How Does Cloud Computing Increase Productivity?
Cloud computing enables workers to perform their roles whenever they want and wherever they are. When deployed correctly and monitored consistently, cloud systems deliver all this with a high degree of security and reliability. The adaptability and agility of cloud-based technology – assisted by messaging tools, mobile applications, progressive web apps (PWAs), and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) – allow digitally savvy workers and organisations to streamline their operations like never before.
According to research out of Stanford, remote employees who use cloud apps and off-premises access are 13% more productive than their peers. However, it’s not just the apps and technologies themselves that boost productivity. As revealed in research conducted by IWG, 85% of business leaders found that productivity increased significantly when employees were given locational flexibility. While it certainly is the cloud facilitating this flexibility, the freedom and autonomy afforded to employees also contribute to their improved productivity levels.
Once again, however, these aren’t the only contributing factors. Let’s take a look at the most notable ways cloud computing can enhance productivity in the workplace.
Enhancing Productivity with Cloud Computing
Reducing Your IT Team’s To-Do List
From server setup and parts replacement to incident management, physical servers add significantly to your IT team’s workload. With cloud computing, however, you can outsource many of those tasks to your provider, freeing your IT workers to concentrate on high-value tasks like cyber security and helpdesk support.
In addition to freeing up time, this frees up invaluable mental space – a more subtle factor that can have a profound impact on productivity. Though this benefit may be felt most acutely among IT workers, it’s one that will extend to your entire team thanks to the ease and flexibility of the cloud.
Enhancing Collaboration
Cloud-powered productivity sites and suites allow your crew to work on projects simultaneously, promoting teamwork and making collaboration far smoother. Cloud computing also creates space for quick and easy information sharing between co-workers. This allows for an unprecedented level of connectedness and consistency among employees, even if they’re operating from different locations and time zones.
Improving Data Security and Disaster Recovery
Many businesses hesitate to transition to the cloud, often due to a belief that maintaining in-house IT operations is more secure than entrusting them to something as vague-sounding as “the cloud.” Shifting operations to the cloud does involve relinquishing some technological control. However, a quality third-party cloud services provider can manage your data with far greater security than you could likely achieve on your own.
How is this possible? Cloud service providers like Invotec specialise in data security and have access to advanced security measures that many businesses do not. We can invest in the latest encryption technologies and employ a team of security experts to monitor for threats 24/7. We’re also underpinned by robust policies and procedures aimed at preventing, detecting, and responding rapidly to security incidents.
Most cloud providers have multiple data centres in various locations, allowing for real-time data replication and quick disaster recovery. This level of efficiency and security is beyond what most businesses could achieve in-house.
Delivering Flexibility and Scalability
Cloud computing offers businesses unparalleled flexibility compared to traditional static solutions. By leveraging the scalability, flexibility, and accessibility of cloud platforms, you can streamline your operations, improve collaboration, and maximise resource utilisation. In turn, this can significantly enhance your overall productivity while minimising manual errors.
Saving Time and Costs
The beauty of the cloud is that you don’t have to invest in all the hardware and infrastructure yourself. Instead, you take advantage of a cloud services provider who has invested in all the costly infrastructure. This gives you an incredibly cost-effective way to improve collaboration and increase productivity in your remote team. You’ll also be equipped to accelerate the deployment of new applications and services and enhance your disaster recovery and business continuity capabilities.
Actionable Tips to Enhance Productivity with Cloud Computing
Implement Cloud Computing Gradually
Transitioning to cloud computing doesn’t have to be an overnight process. Start by identifying one area of your business that could benefit from a cloud upgrade. Put your strategy into action, and then monitor the change and make adjustments over time. As you become more comfortable, expand the use of cloud computing to other areas of your business.
Look for Complementary Services
When choosing a cloud service provider, consider one that offers integrated solutions. Services like Microsoft Azure or Google Workspace provide shared storage, software solutions, and other benefits under a single umbrella. This can reduce costs and make your workspaces more efficient.
Prioritise Training and Support
Ensure your team is well-equipped to use cloud computing tools. This might involve training sessions, tutorials, or ongoing IT support. Remember, the goal is to enhance productivity, so it’s essential that your team knows how to use the tools effectively.
Set Clear Security Guidelines
While cloud computing can enhance data security, setting clear guidelines for handling sensitive information is crucial. Ensure your team understands these guidelines and the importance of maintaining security in a cloud-based environment. A significant amount of training (including regular refresher sessions) may be required.
Leverage the Scalability of Cloud Computing
One of the most impressive advantages of cloud computing is its ability to scale. As your enterprise grows, your cloud services can grow perfectly in step with it. Service providers like Invotec work this into their models, giving you the flexibility to change your package as needed on a month-to-month basis. This means you can add more storage or processing power without having to invest in physical infrastructure. Indeed, all it takes is a quick email or phone call.
Automate Where Possible
Many cloud services offer automation features. You can use these to automate repetitive tasks, freeing up your team to focus on more critical aspects of their work.
Monitor and Adjust
Finally, remember that enhancing productivity is an ongoing process. Regularly review your cloud computing practices and make adjustments as necessary. This might involve trying out new tools, tweaking your current practices, seeking advice from your cloud services provider, or seeking feedback from your team.
The Future of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing has become an integral tool for unlocking productivity among remote workers. By providing secure and flexible work environments, cloud computing enhances efficiency while paving the way for a more agile and resilient future of work. If you’re ready to harness this potential and stay at the forefront of your industry, Invotec is the partner you’ve been seeking. Our professional team is never more than a call away. Dial 1300 468 683 today, and we’ll connect you with a skilled IT consultant who specialises in your industry.
