Is Cloud-Based Software a Good Option for Your Business?

The push for digitization in our society falls

upon a number of precepts: inexpensive supercomputing (think that smartphone in your pocket), the Internet of Things (Hello Alexa!), prevalent connectivity (how's your data plan?), analytics (why you get those disturbingly accurate ads) and cloud computing, which you probably use as well. But is it a good idea for your company's software needs? Here's a look at your options.

Let's start by taking a look at the advantages of cloud-based software. Among software options, this provides one of the highest levels of flexibility, often allowing you to work from several different devices by simply logging into your software. This flexibility makes it easy to get into your software whether you're in the office, across town at a client's location or around the world on vacation but having to consult on a crisis. The developer is responsible for updating the software, which means you don't have to do very much to make sure you have the most current version. It's also often offered as a subscription-based option, which means you don't have to make a big payment up front and it's less expensive to change software if it doesn't work out.

However, there are some drawbacks. You may not be able to instantly access the most recent information, if any, when you don't have network connectivity. If the developer's website goes down, it may limit or eliminate the ability to access your information if you don't have the ability to create local backups. Cloud-based software may be more susceptible to hacking if the developer hasn't taken the proper precautions or if your account isn't secure because of a password issue. Once you start a subscription, rather than a fee, you'll need to keep paying on it instead of having a one-and-done approach to purchasing the software, at least in some cases.

Deciding whether cloud-based software is the best choice for your business is a decision only you can make. However, your software options don't have to be a tough decision if you're not quite sure of yourself! AccountRely has a wide range of experienced business professionals who can help you make the tough choices so that your business can flourish. Please feel free to reach out today to get started.