5 Reasons Businesses Use the Cloud

Recently, IBM shared a fantastic infographic on their Flickr page outlining why the cloud is becoming more of a business decision as opposed to an IT decision.  The reasons they cited may seem obvious but once we consider the broad effect of adoption, they become quite compelling.

It comes as no surprise that companies are adding cloud computing to their technology resources at an ever increasing rate.  Late last year Cisco released its The Cisco Global Cloud Index (GCI).  They identify it as a report that forecasts data center and cloud traffic as well as key trends for 2013-2018.

One highlight of the report shows that a large portion of cloud traffic will be driven by the increasing presence of network connected devices that allow collaboration of people, data, and processes.  This holds true as more manufacturing facilities embrace connectivity and accessibility at the place where it is needed.

Takeaways from IBM’s 5 Reasons Businesses Use the Cloud

1. Better Insight and Visibility – Businesses use the cloud to gather insights, share data, and store data for future reference.
2. Collaboration is Easier – Work is accessible from anywhere on any device. Integration between development, operations, and production gives the company a competitive advantage.
3. Variety of Needs are Supported – Technology can drive better outcomes. Applications like SPC software can drive better quality and productivity.
4. Rapid Development of New Process, Products, and Services – Cloud computing streamlines development and provides additional capabilities that lead to innovation.
5. Proven Concept – Businesses document reduction in IT costs, increased efficiency, and employee mobility.

The move to cloud computing and virtualization is a forgone conclusion.  Ken Hess writes for Virtually Speaking at ZDNet, he believes that “the day of the conventional ‘one physical server, one workload’ is coming to an end.”