Delivering on-demand IT resources over the web on a pay-for-use basis, cloud computing has revolutionized the way we use the internet. One area in which its impact has been particularly profound is data sharing. Here, we examine the effects of the cloud on organizations that store and share information.
Reducing costs and increasing flexibility
Dealing with large amounts of data can be costly and complex, and in the past it often involved significant upfront spending on IT infrastructure. However, with suitable cloud solutions in place, organizations can dramatically lower their expenses and benefit from more flexible and scalable systems. For example, the E–WorkBook cloud solution provided by R&D software specialists IDBS is designed to cut costs and reduce the strain on organizations’ IT teams. Platforms like this give companies access to cutting edge data storage and sharing systems while avoiding the need to shell out for potentially costly on-premises computing infrastructure. Ultimately, this means they can focus more of their money on their core research and less on the technology they need to support this.
The on-demand nature of the cloud also means organizations can up or downscale their data sharing systems much faster and more easily, putting them in a better position to respond to market changes.
Facilitating enhanced collaboration
One of the defining characteristics of the cloud is the fact that it makes it much easier for people to share information from a variety of devices and geographical locations, and this makes large-scale collaboration much simpler. Specialist solutions are available that are tailored to provide effective intellectual property (IP) protection and to facilitate collaboration with external partners. This can be extremely important for organizations that need to share large amounts of information while retaining high levels of control over access to IP.
Making storage simpler
Another benefit of the cloud is the fact that it makes data storage simpler. Information is automatically stored and protected in the cloud, meaning companies don’t have to worry about setting up backup systems to protect information from disasters that can affect their premises – such as floods, fires and thefts. In addition, storage through the cloud can scale up or down seamlessly according to firms’ needs at any given time. Of course, stakeholders can access this data through the relevant cloud systems whenever and whenever they need to.
Given the clear practical and financial benefits the cloud brings to data storage and sharing, it’s no surprise that a rising number of organizations are turning to these solutions.
