Thousands of UK-based small and medium-sized businesses struggle to overcome their fear of technology, placing them in jeopardy of lagging behind rival companies.
Experts from TelephoneSystems.Cloud have issued guidance for SMEs to better understand cloud technology and how best they can implement it into their businesses.
Cloud technology allows small and medium-sized businesses to navigate the modern digital working landscape by facilitating remote working, providing accessible data, improving overall communication and collaboration and reducing costs.
Despite the name, the cloud isn’t data floating in space but is made up of servers in data centres all over the world.
Instead of storing software and data on-site, businesses access stored information over the internet saving money and adding convenience for staff.
Cloud computing is now critical for businesses to support post-pandemic hybrid working while streamlining communication.
However, reports show that 48% of UK SMEs still need to implement a technology investment strategy.
Although data shows that Google searches asking what ‘cloud computing’ is have increased by 60% in the past 12 months, the experts say scepticism among SMEs about the cloud is causing them to disregard its benefits, which could be dire to growth.
Juliet Moran, from TelephoneSystems.Cloud said: “Many SME Business owners remain sceptical of new technology.
“Although moving to the cloud offers businesses a more affordable and sustainable alternative to hosting onsite, some business leaders feel compelled to stick to what they know: on-site filing cabinets and inefficient, expensive, and energy-consuming servers.
“Cloud technology can cut costs and offer flexibility and efficiency in a hybrid working world, which is vital for employers, employees, and customers.
“In today’s digital landscape, failing to upgrade systems will be catastrophic for businesses needing to compete against larger companies who are constantly investing in the latest technologies.”
The cloud offers many opportunities to streamline a business, from scalability to reliability, collaboration, and security.
The technology also has many cost-saving benefits for organisations, including lower power and energy costs, a reduced carbon footprint, and a fully utilised infrastructure.
Companies can expect to save 20% annually on infrastructure by implementing cloud computing, an estimated 40% on the cost of physical space, 37% on new hardware, and up to 60% on energy consumption.
With businesses across the UK feeling the financial pinch, the cloud is an economically viable solution for SMEs looking to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
Moran added: “Understanding the benefits of cloud technology is essential for SMEs to grow and compete in a digital-first future.
“Cloud services allow for an on-demand workplace, so business leaders must reimagine their structure to improve efficiency, productivity, and costs. The cloud is much more than a convenient way to store and access data; SMEs can use the technology to scale and grow.
“From increased storage space, remote access to data, and reduced costs, there are multiple benefits to adopting cloud technology which should not be overlooked because of scepticism about technology.”
