Cloud computing is a technology that uses the internet for storing and managing data on remote servers and then accessing data via the internet. Users of this kind of technology can work remotely. Customers of cloud computing rent equipment from a third-party supplier; they do not control the actual infrastructure.
Cloud computing and its core features include resource pooling, wide network access, quick flexibility, and on-demand self-service. The reason cloud computing is so popular is that it’s easy to utilize. They are an affordable option for businesses.
The characteristics include on-demand cloud services (customer satisfaction), optimal server utilization, and techniques for virtualization and dynamic scalability.
Why is Cloud Computing so important today?
Economics of scale: The demand for computational resources has grown due to the quick rise of social media and e-commerce. Reducing idle server time and maximizing job output are simpler in larger data centers.
Knowledge: Businesses might create the technology and knowledge to construct public data centers by building data centers for their internal clouds.
Productivity: Using cloud computing can make workers more efficient. They can use cloud-based services and apps on any device and from any location, for instance.
Cloud computing can speed up a company’s ability to recover from a disaster. This is so that they can make use of disaster recovery and backup services provided by the cloud.
Open-Source Software: One of the main platforms for cloud computing is the Linux operating system.
Flexibility: Compared to conventional on-premises IT infrastructure, cloud computing offers more flexibility, which is another advantage. Businesses, for instance, can easily release resources when they are no longer needed and provision new ones quickly as needed.
Environmental Benefits: Businesses can lessen their carbon footprint by utilizing cloud computing. This is due to the fact that cloud providers run their businesses on renewable energy and employ energy-efficient data centers.
Customer experience: Cloud computing can assist companies in enhancing the clientele they serve. This is due to their ability to offer clients a better experience by utilizing cloud-based services and apps.
Agility: Businesses can become more agile with the aid of cloud computing. This implies that they will be able to launch new services and apps more swiftly and adjust to shifting market conditions.
Security: When compared to conventional on-premises IT infrastructure, cloud computing can provide enhanced security. This is because cloud providers have expertise in security and can offer a variety of security features, such as data encryption and intrusion detection.
Collaboration: Cloud computing can help improve collaboration among employees. For example, people can exchange data and documents more readily and can access programs and services from anywhere.
10. Example of Cloud Computing
One of the most common instances of cloud computing is web-based email, like Gmail or Outlook. When you use a web-based email service, your messages and attachments are kept on the email provider’s servers, not on your own computer.
Another example of cloud computing is online document storage and collaboration services like Google Docs or Microsoft Office 365. These services let you create, edit, and share documents with others over the internet. Your papers are kept on the service’s servers, not on your own computer.
1. Supply Chain Management System
Cloud-based SCM solutions are complex commercial tools developed to optimize many elements of supply chain management. They serve to process essential procurement, production, logistical, and distribution data. By automating essential activities, such as inventory management, order fulfillment, and demand forecasting, cloud SCM minimizes manual labor, boosting overall operational efficiency.
Accessible through software-as-a-service, supply chain management solutions offer quick real-time coordination among diverse stakeholders in the supply chain, enabling better responsiveness.
Examples of effective cloud SCM are:
SAP’s cloud SCM solution: This comprises demand planning, inventory management, and supply chain cooperation, giving sophisticated analytics and insights for effective decision-making.
Oracle’s cloud-based SCH system: With modules for production, shipping, and procurement, Oracle’s cloud-based supply chain management system delivers a unified platform for all-encompassing supply chain management.
Microsoft’s cloud SCM software: With flawless integrations with other Microsoft 365 apps, Microsoft’s cloud SCM software provides complete visibility and control over supply chain operations.
2. Enterprise Resource Planning System
An ERP system is a complete business program that provides a consolidated database for managing information about finance, human resources, supply chain, manufacturing, and other areas by combining data from several departments. It reduces human labor and increases productivity by automating common workflows and operations, including order processing, inventory management, and financial transactions.
Naturally, ERP software has strong analytics and reporting capabilities, allowing companies to extract valuable information from their data. ERP also makes collaboration easier by offering a single platform that teams from many departments can use to view and exchange real-time data, improving communication.
Examples of cloud-based ERP applications:
Oracle NetSuite cloud-based ERP: Offering a single platform for corporate operations, Oracle NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP that includes modules for project management, supply chain management, and financial management.
Microsoft’s cloud ERP solution: With its seamless integration with other Microsoft 365 apps, Microsoft’s cloud ERP solution offers extensive functionalities for financial and operational administration.
SAP’s cloud ERP platform: End-to-end business processes, sophisticated analytics, and an intuitive user interface are all provided by SAP’s cloud ERP platform to meet the demands of diverse sectors.
3. Human Resources Management Systems
Human resources management systems (HRMS) are intricate business programs created to effectively handle several facets of an organization’s workforce. Critical HR-related data, including payroll, benefits administration, employee information, and performance monitoring, is used by these cloud software applications. We went into great length on how to create an HRMS app before.
Examples for cloud HRM systems:
Workday: Workday is a cloud-based HRMS that provides all-inclusive payroll, talent management, and workforce planning tools for human capital management.
BambooHR: A cloud-based HRMS platform geared toward HR functions including performance monitoring, applicant tracking, and employee records management.
UltiPro: An HRMS that provides a range of payroll, talent management, and HR solutions to meet different HR requirements.
ADP Workforce: The cloud-based HRMS application offers services for benefits administration, payroll, time and attendance, and talent management.
4. Streaming Platform
The internet can now transmit music and video material thanks to these digital platforms. They function in the cloud and offer consumers immediate access to a huge selection of media files without requiring large downloads. They provide flawless playback and frequently come with features like user profiles and tailored suggestions.
Examples of cloud-based streaming services:
Netflix: Netflix is a well-known streaming service that offers a large selection of films, TV series, documentaries, and original material with a high degree of customization by leveraging cloud computing.
YouTube: You can publish, share, and watch videos on the popular cloud-based video sharing website YouTube.
Spotify: Spotify is a cloud-based music streaming platform that offers an extensive collection of songs, playlists, and podcasts to its subscribers.
Amazon Prime: One of the cloud streaming services included with an Amazon Prime membership is Amazon Prime Video. It provides a variety of original material, TV series, and films.
Disney+: Disney+ is a cloud-based streaming service that offers material from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic.
5. Collaboration and Communication Tools
Collaboration solutions that are hosted in the cloud are necessary for smooth corporate communication and cooperation. They function on the cloud, offering a strong platform for teamwork, document sharing, and communication. They improve internal connectedness, making workflows more productive and promoting more effective communication.
Examples of cloud collaboration tools:
Gmail, Google Drive, Google Meet, and Google Docs are just a few of the collaborative tools that Google Workspace provides, fostering communication and teamwork.
Zoom: Zoom is a popular cloud-based video conferencing tool for online collaboration, webinars, and virtual meetings.
Asana: A cloud-based platform for project management and collaboration that facilitates efficient task organization, progress tracking, and team communication inside a shared workspace.
Slack: Slack is a popular cloud communication tool that focuses channel-based structure, real-time chat, and integration with other productivity tools.
6. Business Intelligence and Data Analytics
Systems for business intelligence (BI) and data analytics are potent instruments that turn unstructured data into insightful knowledge that helps the organization make well-informed decisions. Large-scale dataset processing chores are made easier by automation features, which also save human labor and increase overall efficiency in obtaining useful insights.
Scalable architectures are used by real-time cloud services for BI and data analytics, allowing them to swiftly adjust to changing business requirements and differing data quantities.
Examples of cloud-based BI and data analytics solutions:
QuickSight is an AWS cloud-based business intelligence and data visualization solution that provides quick and simple business intelligence.
Google Analytics 360 is a business tool that offers sophisticated statistics and insights into user behavior, website performance, and marketing efficacy.
Tableau For Salesforce is a cloud-based BI solutions which allows users to see and comprehend data. It facilitates data exploration, sharing insights across businesses, and interactive dashboards.
Qlik Sense is another cloud-based BI tool that enables users to produce and distribute interactive reports and data visualizations.
Looker is a cloud-based data platform that enables teams to collaborate and explore data, enabling them to make data-driven choices.
7. Event Management Software
Platforms for event management are comprehensive solutions that are carefully designed to make the complex procedures involved in organizing, planning, and carrying out events easier. These usually involve registering for the event, selling tickets, encouraging participation from attendees, and offering informative analytics after the event.
Examples of cloud-hosted software for event management:
Eventbrite is a popular cloud-based event management and ticketing software which supports a range of events, from small get-togethers to major conferences.
Cvent is a cloud-based event management software often used for event registration, venue selection, marketing, and features related to attendee interaction.
Whova is a cloud-based platform for networking and event management that provides tools for virtual and hybrid gatherings, agenda management, and attendee interaction.
Splash is a cloud-based platform for event management and marketing. It offers tools for registration, event advertising, and post-event statistics.
8. Financial Management Software
Apps for financial management are powerful instruments made to control and enhance a range of business financial operations and handle financial information, such as budgeting, reporting, invoicing, and accounting.
The following are a few instances of cloud computing systems for financial management:
QuickBooks Online is an accounting solution for small and medium-sized enterprises that is hosted in the cloud. It has functions for financial reporting, invoicing, and bookkeeping.
Sage is afinancial management tool that is geared toward medium-sized businesses. Order administration, subscription billing, and basic financials are among the modules it contains.
Zero is a cloud-based accounting program with an intuitive user interface. It offers capabilities for payroll, invoicing, and tracking expenses, making it appropriate for new businesses.
9. Healthcare Information System
Applications for healthcare are sophisticated software tools used to manage data, procedures, and communications in the healthcare industry. Medical personnel may collect, store, and arrange patient data, medical records, and administrative activities on these safe and easily navigable platforms.
Examples of Cloud-based healthcare information systems:
Epic System is a cloud-based electronic health record (EHR) system which unifies clinical processes and patient information with other facets of healthcare administration.
Cerner offers a cloud-based platform for managing healthcare information, encompassing population health management, revenue cycle solutions, and electronic health records.
Allscripts: For medical companies, Allscripts provides cloud HISs, including practice management, revenue cycle management, and electronic health records.
10. Customer Relationship Management Application
Software for customer relationship management (CRM) is a well-liked commercial instrument intended to boost client contentment, regulate sales procedures, and improve consumer interactions. These systems handle data pertaining to customers, such as contact details, correspondence history, and sales activity.
CRM tools for cloud computing include:
HubSpot offers a cloud-based CRM platform with functionality for sales, marketing, and customer support. Its main objectives are lead creation, inbound marketing, and smooth interaction with other HubSpot products.
Zoho CRM is a cloud-based system for lead management, pipeline tracking, and customer communication. It is renowned for having customizable choices and an easy-to-use UI.
Pipedrive is a CRM tool for managing contacts, prospects, and sales funnels, designed specifically for sales teams. It emphasizes usability and simplicity.
Conclusion
Using cloud computing provides several advantages and benefits for different industries and fields. Because cloud computing services offer on-demand, scalable, adaptable, affordable, safe, and cutting-edge cloud services, they may assist businesses and people in achieving their goals and overcoming obstacles.
Cloud computing offers a solution for every demand, be it file storage, data analysis, data backup, software development, infrastructure access, social networking, online sales, online education, or online gaming.