The cloud is something everyone has heard of in recent years. Everyone has some kind of experience with it. It could be from their own personal smartphones or through work as more and more businesses are shifting to use cloud technology. As we move deeper and deeper into technology, the cloud has mystified and confused plenty still. So let’s start back at the basics by explaining what the cloud really is.
As defined by CNN, the cloud is a network of servers that each has a different function. Some of these servers may focus on running specific applications for different users, and others are used for storing data. Most of the apps people have on their smartphones use the cloud to store the data produced from them. Google Drives, Dropbox, Instagram, Facebook are just a few examples of apps that are using the Cloud to provide services or hold data. Sites like Mashable have provided an excellent beginners guide to the cloud if you are interested in a more indepth look at the basic structure of the cloud.
As more and more people shift to using the cloud, it’s important to understand the basics and how to improve on these new systems. With the new year upon on, there is no time like the present. Carve out the first few weeks of the year to focus on improving the IT resolutions you or your business have decided to make. I have listed a couple suggestions below if you are not sure where to start.
The virtual cloud
First you want to train yourself or your people. When a business decides to shift to new technology, it’s important to ensure that everyone has the same knowledge as everyone else. One of the worst things that can happen in a business is a lack of training. Not everyone will be on the same page and it’s important to ensure the team has a basic understanding of the new cloud-based systems and can work with them. As a result of this training, there will be less errors and issues that could arise in the future. If you don’t know how to conduct these trainings, look for companies like Grovo who specialize in training businesses.
After your team is trained, you want to set up a specific team that monitors for issues and the performance of the cloud. Yes, everyone should have the basics down, but this specialized team will be able to understand the data coming from the cloud, and have the ability to analyze it. This team will also be able to stop potential issues that do arise or fix them quickly before it does any long lasting damage.
This management team will also be responsible for the API’s and services. An API is Application Program Interface, which are protocols, routines, and tools used in building software applications. They set how software components should work with each other and are what drive the clouds to work. The management team will control the access to them and what certain people can do with them since a lot of damage can be caused if these controls are placed in the wrong hands.
Following these steps will be timely but be incredibly cost effective in the long run. I hope these tips help you and you have a safe and wonderful New Years.