Four Things to Look For When Choosing Your Cloud Computing Supplier.

The benefits of storing your infrastructure in a cloud computing system versus the traditional method of having a physical server located onsite are obvious: decreased business risk, saved costs and increased security, just to name a few. However, not just any cloud computing system provider will give you the best results. It’s important to know what to look for when deciding the best cloud computing system for your business. We’ve put together a list of the four most important qualities your Cloud supplier should have

1. Security

Security is a key consideration and it is a major benefit of storing your business’ data in the Cloud. However, not every supplier handles your data the same way. Some cloud computing system suppliers store the data from different businesses together in one “Shared Cloud” on a single server therefore sharing resources. This is normally the most cost effective cloud computing solution option, but this may not suitable for all companies. The alternative is a “Private Cloud” where your data resides on its own virtual server within its own individual network. Private cloud solutions are therefore more secure and aren’t affected by the resource demands of other businesses. This ensures minimal disruption and secures attention to only your specific business activities.

2. Flexibility

Your cloud computing system supplier should be experts in the automotive industry. By selecting a supplier that is focused only within the automotive industry, they can deliver solutions that cater specifically for your needs (i.e. decreased downtime, tested failover methods). In addition, cloud computing system providers in the automotive industry know that the model needs to be flexible. For example, dealership group sizes change frequently. Therefore it needs to be possible for dealer groups to be able to increase data storage or decrease data storage easily and quickly. Implementation times should also be quick to avoid crucial business downtime.

3. Low Cost

When storing your infrastructure needs in the Cloud, you’re automatically saving money by no longer having to buy expensive physical servers every couple of years. However, further than that – you should make sure that you’re only paying for the data you use. The model for cloud computing should be customised to your business and you should never have to pay for data storage that you don’t actually use. In addition to this, make sure when looking for a cloud computing system supplier that they offer support and customer service at no additional cost. The ability to log incidents or phone for help whenever needed, without the worry of cost, will save you less headaches and less money in the long run.

4. Customer Support

One massive benefit of storing your business in the Cloud is the peace of mind that comes with fewer network interruptions and less business downtime. However, we all know in the real world that there times when something can and does go wrong. That’s why it’s critical to have all day and night support whenever you need it. It’s important to choose a cloud supplier that is readily available to answer your call - and even quicker to resolve the issue. The best suppliers take full ownership of the problem no matter where the fault lies - no finger pointing. With expert customer service you can rest assured that your business is truly being supported in the best possible way, without the headaches.

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