It seems like most of what we’ve been hearing from the tech world for the past several years is all about the Cloud. From our smart devices storing our pictures in the Cloud to Cloud applications or SaaS (software as a service). Including accounting, the software world is undeniably moving towards a subscription-based models and off premise solutions. However, just because many companies are moving in that direction, doesn’t necessarily mean it’s right for your organization. What is certain is that you should be informed enough to make that call. The challenge is knowing what questions you should be asking. At North49 we believe in equipping you with the knowledge you need to properly assess the best solutions for your business.
Why are you considering a Cloud solution vs an on premise one?
One of the most important questions to answer is “why you’re considering the Cloud”. Beyond all the chatter and trends, identify the reasons you are investigating this option. And yes, there should be more than one reason. Ask yourself, is it because:
- Your organization can better financially manage a subscription-based solution, with monthly or annual payments vs a larger up-front capital investment? Both come with their pros and cons so make sure that you are aware of all the caveats that come along with a SaaS or on premise solution.
- Your current infrastructure is dated. How old are your servers and workstations? Is their horsepower sufficient to run your tech stack? What versions of operating systems and database management software are in place? Are you running the latest versions of your applications including your accounting system? How much does it cost to manage your infrastructure, both internal staff an outsourced IT consultants.
You need to consider all these factors and their cost when comparing Cloud to on premise. Even though Cloud solutions may seem more expensive on the surface, when you consider ongoing infrastructure costs, you may find Cloud is less expensive over time. Use a 5 year timeline to make a comparative analysis. That’s a reasonable timeframe for hardware replacement so those costs need to be factored in.
You must also consider which applications can be run from a cloud environment. You may have programs that are not compatible or able to make such a move. Really understanding your infrastructure requirements and what you can replace or do without may require the assistance of an IT professional. - Working remotely has become more of a requirement than an option for many organizations. The ability to access your systems from a place with a reliable Internet connection can mean the difference between your operation coming to a grinding halt or continuing to run. Pandemic aside, quality of life has become more and more important to employers and employees alike. Having the ability to work from home when the weather is poor, or an employee needs to stay home with the kids, or for any other myriad of reasons, we are recognizing that happy employees generally work better. It is as much a quality of life issue as it is a quality of work issue.
- Cloud solutions typically offer better security against malware and other viruses. These services are provided by companies who are extremely diligent in their anti-virus protocols and further aren’t receiving direct email exchanges where predators usually attack with phishing scams.
- Modernizing overall is one reason organizations consider bringing their operations to the Cloud. Often, we see a change of management to the next generation who is looking at the most contemporary solutions. What has worked well in the past is no indication that it will continue to be the best solution as your organization and the market evolves.
Moving from your LAN based solution is a choice that all businesses will have to face eventually. Companies today need more flexibility to seize emerging opportunities or quickly deal with new challenges. Too often inefficient processes that don’t adapt to new requirements are hurting businesses that aren’t considering a Cloud solution. A Cloud accounting system provides the ability to adapt to a changing landscape for finance professional. Giving finance staff the power to easily reconfigure workflows or data points without the need for IT help is improving the process. Automation makes it easier to manage and modify routine daily tasks.
One of the major benefits of being in a cloud solution is real-time data. In our next blog, we’ll take a look at how having access to real-time data can help your business.
Sage Intacct is the innovation and customer satisfaction leader in Cloud Financial Management. The Sage Business Cloud and Sage Intacct offers the best capabilities for companies looking to gain efficiencies and bring cloud computing to their finance and accounting functions.
To learn more about Sage Intacct and how your business may benefit from cloud accounting, book some time on my calendar.
About North49
North49 is a Sage Authorized Partner and Sage Development Partner. We help our customers to improve, automate, and streamline their processes to become more effective and strategic in managing their business.
www.north49.com| +1 (888) 599-1115 | solutions@north49.com