Small Businesses [ SMEs ] have no choice but to use the Cloud Computing

The cons of the Cloud are the same for all companies, but Small Businesses can't afford the traditional-IT alternative

What's interesting is that small and larger businesses cite the same complaints around the use of cloud-based platforms, particularly regarding the lack of control. Security is always a concern, but I've yet to hear about people running off with cloud data, even when it occurs daily in enterprises on traditional systems.

However, small businesses really have no choice but to use the cloud. A traditional approach to IT typically means a high overhead cost. Saddled with such costs, small businesses wouldn't be able to compete in a market where their counterparts are paying half as much on IT to chase same amount of revenue.

Thus, most small businesses have few options other than cloud computing. They can certainly complain about the lack of control and security perceptions, but the benefits hugely outweigh the deficits. In fact, the use of the cloud should be exciting for small businesses: New businesses can start up on a shoestring now that most IT resources can come from the cloud.

Still, there will always be the good with the bad. Cloud computing is not at all perfect, but it will continue to evolve to better service businesses -- small businesses now, perhaps larger businesses in the future.

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