Who in today’s IT industry hasn’t heard of the Cloud? There is a need for a robust and reliable source of the software interface and hardware infrastructures in computing or storage of large amounts of data, handling servers, or processing those sensitive applications.
You could build your own massive data center based on storage capacity and supporting architectures capable enough, but that would be a costly exercise. Why buy and set up a complete server system when a virtual server setup can do the same job more efficiently?
We have had an in-depth look at the industries that benefit from cloud-based platforms, from manufacturing to the online gaming industry, and have decided this is where cloud platforms come into play. Isn’t it time to have a look at the cloud platform?
Cloud Technology Defined
Cloud technology is Internet-generated on-demand access to computer system resources, specifically data storage and computing power.
Cloud providers are companies who establish, manage, develop and provide computer solutions to various industries. Cloud service providers offer cloud technology.
A significant benefit of employing this outsourced service is the reduction in a company’s IT cost.
Why Use Cloud Technology
Cloud providers offer access to ready-developed computing services that a business would otherwise have the expense of developing itself. Services include:
- Infrastructure
The infrastructure is the backbone of a business. It is its invisible strength consisting of network, data management and storage, servers, and virtualization.
- Software
Applications required to operate the business provided by cloud technology are bespoke or standardized for the industry.
- Platforms
Cloud technology provides software supported and operated via a platform known as operating systems, middleware, and runtime environments.
Industries using cloud technology
With the COVID pandemic entering the third wave, more and more industries are becoming reliant on decentralized back-office operations and online accessibility for their customers.
Employers are working from home and possibly more critically; customers are also not leaving their homes and becoming more and more reliant on online services.
Cloud technology is expanding due to increased demand, and by 2024, predictions are that more than 45% of Information Technology spend will be on the conversion from traditional to cloud technology.
There is no one-size-fits-all in cloud technology. Each industry has unique technological requirements. As such, there now exist ‘industry clouds’ offering specific technical solutions. Enterprises with their specific clouds include:
- Manufacturing
The manufacturing sector has seen a marked increase in the use of cloud technology. As a result, the cloud providers have developed core functions from the factory assembly line to packaging, distribution, and customer sales. Full automation will eventually take over the manufacturing industry, with cloud technology driving and supporting this.
- Retail
The retail sector will move to cloud technology by its very nature. From both perspectives, supplier, stock, and customer, there is an immense amount of data that cloud providers are well-positioned to collect, store and analyze. Simply put, a product is a product, whether it is a widget or a high-performance motor vehicle.
Cloud technology, specific to the retail sector, will track product performance and improve efficiency.
- Healthcare
Especially relevant in the COVID pandemic, personal information and medical records should be stored securely in a centralized data facility. The ability to track and trace patients is critical for healthcare and medical professionals.Cloud technology has had a significant impact on remote monitoring, and healthcare professionals can care for their patients. It is only possible through cloud technology due to the sophistication of the infrastructure.
Another area impacted by cloud technology in the healthcare industry is the maintenance of patient records. Any intervention by third parties adds bulk to the data. The capacity of cloud technology can cope with these volumes of data where stand-alone computer systems cannot.
- Education
Online learning has increased in recent years. In turn, academic institutions are having to modify their teaching practices. Students are accessing learning materials 24/7. Centralized education systems ensure their data and curriculums are accessible at any time.No education department or college could afford the IT infrastructure required to run online schooling. A collective centralized initiative supported by the government necessitates the overcoming of this challenge and guarantees accessibility.
- Entertainment
The entertainment business, specifically online gaming, is also transforming itself to recognize the increasing demands of its growing client base.Customers are calling for an all-around experience forcing providers to focus not only on the game but also on extra amenities such as food, beverages, and entertainment. Casinos are developing superior guest services to increase online gaming revenues.
The IT infrastructure required to achieve this is industry-specific. The anticipation of customer expectations can be monetized by capturing guest details in real-time and synchronizing this information across systems.
Over time, fully integrated systems and practical data analysis builds client profiles and drives intelligent decisions. Casinos are seeing the benefit of reconfiguring their IT infrastructure to attain flexible and efficient results.
Cloud technology within this industry modernizes systems without a hefty capital outlay on in-house hardware. Investment in the cloud will result in better performance, scalability, and alternative revenue streams.
The analytical capabilities of cloud technology transform data into a meaningful, profitable opportunity otherwise impossible to achieve before.
Cloud technology virtualizes resources enabling multiple system connectivity. Staff can access sites remotely as well as customers.
Enhanced security through improved data management ensured casinos meet stringent regulations and consumer privacy laws.
The Disadvantages of Cloud Technology
Every system has its pros and cons. Cloud technology is no exception. The advantages mentioned above are numerous – from saving on IT software and hardware costs to data analysis. However, the weaknesses are fundamental and should be considered as they too may have an impact:
- Risk of data confidentiality
- Internet connectivity
- Level of security
- Compliance with regulations
- Vulnerable to an attack
- Data mobility
- Technical problems
While the disadvantages may seem daunting, overall systems are improving continuously and becoming more sophisticated, and the benefits outweigh them.
Finding and transferring the correct cloud technology is integral to taking a business to the next level.
