Un-frequently asked questions
Answers to the questions you’ve always had but never wanted to ask:
What is “The Cloud?”
In its physical form, “the Cloud” is a network of servers that store data and run software. End users access these servers, or “access the Cloud,” on their computers, tablets, smartphones, and other connected devices via the Internet. Some clouds provide access to data, such as Microsoft’s OneDrive and Dropbox, while others provide access to a software, such as Office 365 or QuickBooks Online. These cloud-based software solutions are often referred to as Software as a Service (SaaS). Many provide access to both data and software.
Cloud-based solutions are a great option for growing businesses, and there are many reasons they have become so popular. For starters, near-ubiquitous Internet connection via WiFi and cellular has enabled easier access to the Cloud. Second, having storage and software run on remote servers means that computers require less local storage, which has resulted in smaller computers. This is not only convenient, but it has led to lower cost devices. A third major benefit is that it
enables easy and secure access from almost anywhere; no more using VPN if you’re out of the office. And fourth, it provides an easy way for businesses to scale up or down their services based on fluctuating demands, something that cannot be easily accomplished when purchasing hardware is required. Additional benefits include lower upfront costs and lower maintenance demands.
Should I let workers telecommute?
The short answer is that you may not have a choice. The landscape is changing and the option to work remotely is becoming more of a requirement for recruiting and retaining employees. That being said, there are other employer benefits to letting employees work from home. According to a report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, telecommuting policies make it easier to employ a range of workers, including people with disabilities, working parents, and workers who live far away. It can also reduce absenteeism.
A study conducted at the University of Amsterdam showed employees who lived more than 30 miles from work missed 15% more days from work than those with shorter commutes. So, how do you make working remotely more successful? Encourage workers to spend their remote working time on more creative tasks rather than on dull ones. A study on telecommuting at the University of Innsbruck showed that working remotely reduces productivity by 6-10% when tasks were dull and repetitive. Conversely, productivity increased 11-20% when more creative tasks were assigned.
