Cloud tools 'a key issue for SMEs' in 2013 - According to Forbes

[Former Member]

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) looking to expand in the coming year might find it hugely beneficial to adopt cloud computing solutions, as this has been named as one of the key issues for these companies in the next 12 months.

Forbes identified the technology as one of the top priorities for less-sizeable organisations in 2013, along with areas such as cyber security and ecommerce solutions. The publication explained taking advantage of the cloud can be great for a small firm as it gives it access to all of its business-critical information and applications at any time, wherever a user is.

This can help streamline a firm's operations, leaving them with more time to focus on their core priorities without having to worry about looking after back-office IT solutions.

In fact, Forbes identified five key advantages businesses stand to see from using the cloud, which it highlighted using the acronym SMART

Sales increases,

More control,
Accelerated profits,

Real-time information and

Technology enhancements.

Firstly, the business publication observed using the cloud can help firms improve their sales by reducing the time personnel have to spend on administrative matters. This leaves staff free to develop innovations to drive sales, as well as allowing them to spend more time directly interacting with customers.

By providing firms with a higher level of control, staff are able to view key information in real-time. This means "small businesses can make more informed decisions faster and never be out of touch with the most important business data," the news provider said.

Similarly, immediate access to these metrics means firms can make better choices to increase profitability, while integration with mobile devices means users can view this wherever they are, taking advantage of new technologies such as tablets and smartphones.

Forbes also added that because everything is in the cloud, this leads to reduced costs for an IT department. This can be particularly vital to SMEs, as it can give them access to tech solutions that would otherwise be beyond their budget if they were relying on traditional tools.