Brendans Blog

The term ‘Cloud computing’ comes from the diagrams that have been used in the past to depict the internet, with a pretty picture of a cloud, with lots of little computers around it, like this one;



 Cloud Computing refers to Programs (applications) and Files (data) that are not installed on you computer, instead, they are stored on the internet and accessed, usually via a website, from your web browser.

Examples of this in small business include Accounting systems, Project management, Customer records and Email.

The advantages of this method of working include;
Scalable – the system and storage can grow with your needs, this provides wider options for smaller, lighter cheaper computers for your staff
Widely accessible – you can access your programs and data from any computer that has internet access. Meaning that you are at a lower risk if you lose your computer to theft or damage. Some applications even allow access via mobile phones and tablet PC’s.
Secure – Instead of having to worry about keeping each computer in your office secure with the latest firewalls and anti-virus, the vital company data is stored and secured by the vendor’s of your Cloud Computing applications.

Here, at Receptive Technologies we have many of our systems working from ‘The Cloud’ including;
Invoicing (Freshbooks/Business Catalyst)
Accounting (Xero.com)
Payroll (epayroll.com.au)
Project Management (www.myIntervals.com)
File storage (www.jungledisk.com)
Email/Calendar (Google Apps)
Customer database (Business Catalyst)

So, go forth, and move your business online, it could revolutionise your business!