Admin’s note: This is a guest post by small business blogger Simon Wilson.

Cloud computing has been developing rapidly in the last few years and it offers some amazing benefits to small businesses.  The range of services, functions and flexibility it offers is as yet unexplored by large numbers of these firms.  While many have heard of it, relatively few of the smallest firms have begun to implement cloud solutions.  This is probably in part because small, or one person, businesses are generally too busy to focus on their IT needs.  Often required to be the master of all aspects of the business, those of the less techie amongst us may shy away from what we don’t understand.  Cloud computing is one solution that you should not ignore and it’s not as scary as it might seem. 

Basics of Cloud Computing

OK, so cloud computing is just another obscure phrase for something technical that you really need a whole IT team to deal with, yes?  Not exactly; if you’ve used Hotmail in the past you’ve already used a cloud computing solution.  Unlike computer based software for email, Hotmail is delivered via the internet.  You can access your email account from anywhere that happens to have a computer and internet connection.  Today, things have moved on a little.  Most applications and software can be delivered to your computer via the internet.  This means that instead of installing applications on your PC, laptop or Mac you access them via the web.  Information, documents, media files are all stored remotely and you can access them when and where you like.

Becoming an IT Expert Effortlessly

Rather than needing an IT team to install, manage and maintain your cloud computing services, this method is like having a virtual team of your own.  Small business people across the country can be found late at night trying desperately to install complex software; later still they’ll be found uninstalling, re-installing and then going back to the manual.  By the early hours they can be found trying to add updates and additional features.  With cloud computing software all of this is done remotely and without any need for you to lose sleep over it.  There is no installation process and any updates are done automatically.  For anybody who has little or no computing experience, this can be a huge benefit and a considerable weight off your shoulders! 

Disaster Management

For larger firms a business continuity plan is normally in place.  Generally this is written at great expense by expert consultants.  For small businesses business continuity can mean nipping to the library to check your emails because the cat smashed the laptop during a world record-breaking feat of athletics.  If, however, your end of year accounts, tax records, invoices and customer database were stored on said laptop, you’ll be heading to the library in a very bad mood indeed.  With cloud software you may be cursing under your breath but poor Kitty won’t be facing a ten stretch at the local RSPCA.  OK, the laptop is going to have to be replaced but all your records are safely stored and available via the web.  Nor will you need to re-install the software itself.  Results all round! 

Account-ability

One of the most useful cloud solutions for small firms is online accounting software, which allows you to keep accurate up to date records and store them safely out of the way of minor or major disasters.  It also gives you access to them when and where you need it and allows your accountant access too, saving time and money.  Accounting may not be your specialist subject, a fact most small business owners will sympathise with, but simple online accounting software will help you to manage your accounts quickly and easily.  Of all the cloud computing tools, this is probably the “must have”.

Simon Wilson blogs about small business issues, covering everything from payroll software to help and tips for entrepreneurs.  When he’s not online he loves swimming and climbing and can be often found down his local cinema immersing himself is his love for foreign cinema.