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Moving your business accounts to the cloud can provide your company with many benefits. It gives your business the ability to integrate various apps and financial details with the software. It also provides employees with instant, secure access to real-time data. Moving to the cloud is a no-brainer for most businesses, and it could be the perfect choice for you, too.
Before you move your business to the cloud, however, you must take these three essential security measures: Decide how you’re going to do it, check your software, and make sure security protocols are in place for when you make the change.
Build a Server Room or Opt for a Cloud Subscription Service
There are a variety of monthly or annual subscription-based services you can look into to determine which option is best for your company. While 64.9 percent of IT professionals trust the cloud as much as or more than on-site solutions, according to the Cloud Security Alliance, you’ll want to make sure it’s the right choice for your business.
Depending on the size and needs of your business, it might be worth building your own server room. However, the cost of outfitting and maintaining a server room might be more than you’re willing to pay. In that case, you might already be using a service such as Google Drive or Dropbox for Business that will allow you to store your business data on its servers for a fee.
Ensure Your Software Is Cloud-Compatible
As you prepare for the move to the cloud, contact your software providers to discuss this change and what they can do to make sure all your data comes over with its software. This will help make sure your employees have as little of a learning curve and as few lost files as possible.
Some programs, such as Microsoft Office 365 and Microsoft Outlook, have more secure options and work better with certain companies than others. You might even be able to get a better deal on the programs you need. You’ll want to learn all about them for yourself to make the best decision for your company.
Make Sure Your Software and Data Are Secure
Research best practices for operating on the cloud so you’re aware of what security protocols your business needs to put in place. Also, confirm what security protocols your cloud service provider already offers. Your service provider will be able to walk you through the best practices.
Train Your Employees
Last, but certainly not least, make sure your IT people are prepared to make the changeover and deal with the likely hiccups. As with any program shift, there is going to be a learning curve. But with the right help, you can make it easier for your employees in the long run. You’ll also want to plan training to help them with the transition. Your service provider, as well as your software providers, are likely to have webinars or staff that can guide your employees through the training.
As long as you’ve done your research, you should have a smooth and secure transition to the cloud.
