Your business depends on quick access to accurate information. Without safe and proper information storage, your field service business is susceptible to security threats, which can result in lost revenue. With the rise of cloud-based services, you can now ensure your data is secure while also streamlining operations.
Although, introducing any new technology to your company’s workflow poses risks. Before you adopt cloud-based service management, it’s important to be aware of the benefits and potential risks each solution can present.
Benefits of Cloud-Based Service Management
Low Cost
Cost savings is the most common reason why businesses switch to a cloud-based solution. In fact, Flexera’s 2021 State of the Cloud Report reveals the rate of companies adopting cloud computing is growing at its fastest pace yet.
Employing a staff of full-time IT professionals can be costly and is often unnecessary for small and medium-sized companies. Leveraging a cloud-based service for your data storage and file management can save you thousands every year.
Plus, you’ll still enjoy all the functionality of an IT staff without the associated salary overhead.
Automatic Updates
Commercial off-the-shelf software begins to depreciate as soon as it’s purchased. Costly and frequent updates may be required to keep your system safe and up-to-date. This also requires a great deal of your time and attention.
With a cloud-based solution, your software remains secure by automatically updating the latest security patches with little to no effort on your end.
Flexibility
Along with the cost savings, flexibility is another huge benefit to cloud-based service management software.
Companies can switch between different types of service — Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS) or Infrastructure as a Service (Iaas) — at any time to meet their unique needs. We’ll discuss the differences between these three types later on.
Also, companies can choose whichever operating model works best for them, either in a private cloud, public cloud, or hybrid cloud. Each option has its own set of perks and drawbacks.
In addition, companies have the choice between different levels of control, scalability, tool selection and storage options within these options as well.
Security and Recovery
Hacks and breaches can cost your company millions in lost data, labor and revenue. Plus, leaking sensitive customer data can cause a lot of harm to your company’s reputation. Cloud systems store your data in a secure and centralized off-site location, protected with encryption.
Encrypted data is the most secure method to store all your company’s sensitive information. Plus, sharing your company’s commitment to data integrity and encryption of customer information can help win over customers deciding between competitors.
Accessibility
Cloud-based service management allows employees to access data from anywhere so that they can work on the go.
Some cloud solutions have even built robust mobile apps. The cloud allows for greater collaboration and communication between teams, as well as simultaneous access to the same data.
Risks of Cloud-Based Service Management
Potentially Reduced Control and Visibility
When you have a third-party CSP handling some of your data, you give over some amount of control over it. You don’t wholly own a cloud-based software. Therefore, you pay a subscription fee to access it. Also, some of your data may be stored on the provider’s servers, depending on the type of model you use.
Might Pay for Features You Don’t Need
Some cloud services might package features together preventing personalization. As a result, you may end up paying for services you don’t need or use.
Types of Cloud-Based Services
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
IaaS is the most basic level of cloud computing. It gives you access to storage over the internet and allows you access to IT infrastructures such as servers, networks and operating systems.
Popular IaaS providers include:
IaaS providers require the most amount of individual setup and a higher level of technical knowledge on your company’s staff to implement and operate.
Platform as a Service (PaaS)
PaaS is the next level after IaaS that allows users to access tools and applications over the Internet.
Popular PaaS options are:
Since the provider manages the foundational part of the platform, users can then manage, design, code and run the applications. With PaaS, the primary users are developers.
Software as a Service (SaaS)
This is the top-tier of the cloud-based services. This option allows individuals to access an application via the Internet on a pay-per-use plan.
Popular examples include:
Typically, SaaS is an end-user application and is a common option for companies, individual consumers and IT professionals. SaaS provides the most user-friendly experience and highest level of developer support for onboarding companies to these applications.
The Best Cloud-Based Service Management Software Offers Endless Possibilities
If this is your first encounter with the idea of cloud-based services, and you primarily run your business with pen and paper, the benefits of switching might shock you.
Not only can software streamline and optimize your company, but this one simple change to a cloud-based service can revolutionize how you do business.
Imagine this:
- A fully paperless business.
- Anywhere accessibility to all your company’s files.
- Robust customer profiles with notes and photos for easy review in the office and the field.
- Performance dashboards to review, guide and coach your customer service team.
- Scheduling and dispatch tools to simplify and optimize your existing field team’s day.
See how FieldEdge can streamline every aspect of your field service business. Book your FREE personalized demo today!
