Online versus on-premise business software
We look at the questions that need to be addressed when considering investing in a cloud-based business software application over an on-premise implementation and also the pro’s and cons of both.
At the end of 2013 it was estimated by the Cloud Industry Forum that over 75% of UK businesses are using at least one cloud service formally. With what seems like the whole world now moving to the cloud for their IT applications what is best for your business? There are often dangers of the herd mentality, so should you leap into the cloud immediately, or are there reasons to bide your time?
Some companies use the cloud for practically everything. Others use it for specific business functions, such as helping their sales log and keep track of calls whilst out in the field. Additionally, some 57 per cent of employees say the availability of flexible working in their workplace is important to them, according to Sage data.
There’s no denying that cloud, which offers more flexible and scalable installations for lower initial costs, has huge potential benefits. These have already been recognised by start-ups and companies serving the SME sector.
The flexibility of Sage 200 Online means it’s easy for companies to add or remove users or additional modules as they need to, meaning they pay for what they use, not for what they don’t. So as well as being cost-effective, it provides a flexible solution for the future.