The business owners that have yet to migrate to the cloud are definitely in the minority, while large companies and corporations have been on the cloud for a few years; multi-nationals would find it hard to operate in real-time without secure cloud networks, which keeps all stakeholders on the same page.

If you run a small business, here are just some of the benefits you can enjoy when you migrate your data to the cloud.

• Access from any location – You might be at a customer’s premises and you need to create an invoice; you can use either your smartphone or laptop to access your files. There are no geographical limitations with cloud data storage and real-time updating keeps all parties informed.

• Cheap communication – You don’t need to make regular phone calls, as your network can host video conferencing solutions, which will save you a lot of money. Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, as it is known, is a method of transmitting video and audio data via the web and there are no by-the-minute charges. Video conferencing empowers the business owner, with features like real-time communal whiteboards, file-sharing and real-time updates.

• Real-time updates – If a salesperson in Brisbane makes a sale, they can instantly update and everyone can see that. This prevents misunderstandings and streamlines your business processes while keeping you up to date at all times. If, for example, you want to know how sales are going today, you can login to your network and find out.

• Cyber-security – Your network provider monitors 24/7 to ensure that your data is always secure. All authorised users have a name and password to access the network and it is up to you whether or not you allow employees to use their personal devices. In the event a hacker attempts to penetrate your network defences, the malicious code is quarantined, and the origins can be traced.

• Low-cost bookkeeping & accounting – Once you migrate to the cloud, your bookkeeper no longer needs to visit your offices; simply create a username and password and allow access to relevant data. If your accounting staff save time, that keeps their invoice low, which is a win-win for all.

• Automate your business processes – Using the latest generation of business software, you can automate some of your business processes. Invoices can automatically be sent, while you can set notifications when your inventory runs low. Sector-specific software saves you a lot of time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of the business such as customer service.

• Automatic backup – Of course, your data needs backing up and the network administrator can set how often backups occur. You might prefer a 30-minute backup, or perhaps every 3 minutes, everything is possible with cloud networks.

So, there you have it; a few compelling reasons to consider migrating to the cloud. Start by talking to a leading Australian communications specialist about cloud networking and learn more about the many benefits it brings to the small business. There is no hardware to install and the network can be created within a few hours; what are you waiting for? Search online for a telecommunications company that offers cloud business solutions and take the first step to ultra-efficiency.