Cloud Applications — What Can They Do For You?

A cloud application is essentially a program that’s cloud-based and allows end users to access a network, usually the Internet or a virtual workstation. In comparison to desktop apps and web apps, cloud application’s advantage relies on the fact that it offers the best of both worlds – fast responsiveness, interactivity and easy access via the Internet. This gives users increased flexibility, allowing them to perform at a higher level and potentially improve efficiency.

How exactly do cloud applications make the experience better for end users? For one, cloud computing can be used in any type of environment, even if there’s no wireless connection. Even though an Internet connection is generally necessary for accessing cloud applications, users can still work offline if needed, and then simply update the application once they have Internet connection.

These are some of the many applications that companies use on a daily basis that can be easily moved to the cloud:

• Email. Because its components have been standardized, there is no real need for companies to keep the email architecture in-house. Additionally, cloud computing vendors have better resources to ensure data security.
• CRM. Similar to emails, CRMs are where companies store most of their information. However, maintaining these applications on-site means paying for unnecessary licenses and overhead costs.
• Conferencing software. Since the configuration of this type of software is typically complex, it’s more feasible to pay a low monthly (or annual) fee to a reliable cloud computing providers than to hire an IT staff to take care of this.

The multiple benefits cloud applications provide have made this solution increasingly prevalent in the business world. And with the continuous technological developments of cloud computing, the best is yet to come.