How business is being done in the cloud

If you want to expand your business across multiple sites or even do business internationally, no tool is quite as useful as the cloud.

Even if you’re simply changing things around locally and you want to have more freedom about where you and your staff work from, it can revolutionise what you do. Many people still haven’t explored the business cloud in depth, however; so what do you need to know?

The benefits of cloud ERP

The fantastic thing about cloud ERP is that it streamlines day-to-day office processes without even needing an office to do it in. Administrative work such as synchronising tasks and making sure information gets to the right people at the right times can ultimately be done far more effectively by a computer than by a human being. Because it’s in the cloud, information – and the software with which to process it – can be accessed anywhere using mobile devices. This means that staff can work from home, whilst commuting, or on business trips, even if they’re overseas.

Although there were security concerns about some early experiments in cloud computing, it’s now very often safer than traditional ways of working because data can be stored in security centres protected by better software than most individual businesses could afford. The same software advantage applies to the tools businesses have access to for doing cloud based work, potentially saving you a lot of money on upgrades and meaning you’ll never again feel frustrated at being sent material in a format you can’t access.

Cloud success stories

Fiat PowerTrain Technologies was founded in Turin in 2012 as a spin-off of Fiat Group Automobiles and rapidly expanded across nine different countries. Using cloud technology has enabled it to synchronise its operations. Its North American branch uses it to keep things running smoothly across ten parts distribution centres and a wide network of dealers.

Jafrum is a motorbike parts and accessories company based in Charlotte, North Carolina, in the US, but it trades internationally through an online store and auction sites. Using cloud based ERP has enabled it to streamline its inventory and work effectively with partners such as FedEx.

The changing face of international business

Thanks to the general breaking down of barriers brought about by the internet, businesses of all kinds are increasingly crossing international boundaries. Using the cloud means that it’s no longer necessary to think in terms of separate branches and divisions. Although on-site managers are still a good idea, overall operations can be run from a single site, with a single data system. This means international operations can be far more consistent, and so can the brand as experienced by customers.

Cloud ERP has also made international collaboration between businesses far more efficient. It means that when you travel to do business in another country, you won’t be at a disadvantage – even in somebody else’s office, you’ll have all the facilities of your own right there with you on your tablet or laptop.

The cloud is getting easier and easier to use, and ERP tools easier to implement in your business, so if you haven’t done so already, now’s the time to take the plunge.