Definition
The concept of « Cloud Computing » can be summarized in the computer processing of a company’s data on servers located off its premises. Suppliers can offer access to completely dedicated corporate servers or part of shared servers. Generally, the software and the data located on these servers are accessed by a simple Internet browser or by communication software which is easy to configure such as for example the « Remote Desktop » software.
For a more detailed definition, here is a link to Wikipedia.
The term SaaS – « Software as a Service » is another term often mentioned when it comes to « Cloud Computing ». It can be boiled down to using software on the Internet by subscribing, that is, paying a monthly fee. It allows a reduction in the cost of purchasing applications and their immediate supply.
So « Cloud Computing » offers unlimited and scalable solutions. But is it really beneficial ? Opinions are divided. Here are some advantages and disadvantages to consider. Note that there are others and the answer often depends on your needs and your business needs and particularity (your industry, your resources, etc.). There is also a way to combine regular computer technology and « Cloud Computing » to try to take advantage of these two types of technology..
Benefits
Remote Access and Remote Work Facilitated – Your employees, customers and even suppliers can access your data and software at any time from any computer connected to the Internet without the need to install a « client » software on them compared to regular Client-Server technology. So a business that has the need to use large servers can avoid having an air-conditioned server room.
Reduced Maintenance and Initial Costs – The « Cloud Computing » allows companies to no longer have to acquire / buy servers, maintain them and replace them when they are obsolete. There may be only the user workstations to be maintained as well as the network that connects them. So a business that has the need to use large servers can avoid having an air-conditioned server room. So no big upfront hardware costs.
Changing Needs – Since the resources on the Internet are limitless, the need for your business to increase its resources, following an expansion for example, is not a problem at the hardware level. Likewise, if your needs decrease, you can reduce the resources reserved for you, thereby reducing your monthly costs. In short, pay only for what you need and what you use.
Reduction of Failures – Computer outages, so costly to businesses, may be less and the services of computer technicians less required.
Disadvantages
Security– Among the disadvantages, several people criticize « Cloud Computing » mainly for reasons of security and data confidentiality. It is worrying, but generally these services are well protected.
Dependence on Suppliers – Since the computer resources are hosted, you have to depend on the supplier of your servers, your Internet provider and of course the reliability of the network between them. You absolutely need a very reliable Internet connection.
Costs – When your computing needs are stable and there is no essential benefit to your business from using « Cloud Computing » , this solution will become more expensive over time than traditional on premise technology.
DCision ERP Software in the « Cloud »
The deployment of DCision ERP is easily done in the « Cloud ». Users can thus connect to DCision ERP sessions from any computer in the world and have access to their personal files. Note that DCision ERP is also offered for rent if you want to migrate to a SaaS model.
In addition, our consultants can help you determine if it is in your interest to migrate to this technology and if so, with which technology. They can also help you plan and realize this migration.
Contact us to learn more about our solutions and this offer!