If you’re in the dark, on the fence, or basically undecided when it comes to implementing a cloud-based solution, understand that cloud computing transforms the operational landscape of your business. There is a long list of benefits associated with a cloud-based system, and they’re both practical and affordable. Let’s take a look at some of the standouts.
An even playing field
On-premise implementations could take months to setup, with higher costs and complexity. Small to Medium Sized Businesses (SMBs) can benefit with cloud subscriptions. Cloud-based subscriptions are as flexible as they are practical: you’re able to pay only for what you use, and adjust and purchase more as your business grows.
This Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model is a welcome change from more rigidly structured subscriptions that usually require a commitment and purchase of a plan containing features and services that go largely unused. Most cloud providers will automatically update the application with new features and fixes without the users even knowing. How easy is that?
Greater access to a larger customer pool
With cloud implementation comes improved efficiencies that extend to all things customer service. From customer tracking to lead follow up, and updates, the improved efficiency of customer data management results in greater access to a larger customer pool. While there’s no guarantee that this will translate to larger sales numbers, a cloud-based infrastructure certainly lays the groundwork.
Team members can easily collaborate on the same information with a cloud-based solution. Data can be stored in secure data centers and shared by others in real-time. The result is great efficiencies for your business, allowing you to make better informed decisions. For many businesses, your office is no longer a singular place or location. Now you and your team, can work effectively from anywhere, at any time.
Significant overhead reduction
Implementing a Cloud solution significantly lowers the cost of your business. The night and day effect is like eliminating the need for an IT department, as costs previously associated with upgrades and maintenance are absorbed into a subscription fee at a fraction of the previous cost. You’re still receiving the technical support and upgrades that you need (when you need it). You’re no longer spending (and wasting) time and money maintaining an on-site server; and you can allocate that savings towards other areas to grow your business.
What about the temporary staff you have to hire to gather all your data from disparate systems? Or, what about the time spent going in and out of databases and consolidating all the data? And by the time you get your report, it’s five days old. How inefficient is that?
Open or closed platform
When choosing a cloud-based system, you need to ask ‘Is my database on one platform? Is the platform open or closed?’ I encourage you to read John Silvani, President & CEO of Gravity Software’s article “Closed vs. open platform: The call of the open road,” because one of the most overlooked areas on selecting business software is how it is written.
Choosing an open platform allows users to pick and choose which add-on modules they want to include for their business. A report can be written to gather the information from these modules drawing information from any place. Businesses will realize better value and overall efficiency by using an open platform.
Improved overall efficiency
A properly implemented cloud system improves efficiencies across the board, in everything from reduced overhead to saving time. Your list of benefits continues with timely and accurate reporting, customized security features that you control, and precision-caliber tracking of all things inventory. So you’ll spend less time putting out fires and more time proactively analyzing and growing your business.
When it comes to a cloud-based accounting solution, consider Gravity Software® (Gravity). Built on the Microsoft Power Platform (aka Dynamics 365 CRM), Gravity is structured to help manage and efficiently operate your business. You have the ability to make smart decisions that impact your margins and ultimately improve your cash flow. What a way to save and grow at the same time! Learn more and schedule your online demo today, and just say GO!
Gravity Software
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