What is the Cloud?
A lot of tech companies mention the Cloud, but few take the time to explain what the term actually means. Unlike traditional software, Cloud software isn’t downloaded and stored on your computer. Instead its software that’s stored and run through your internet connection.
It’s state-of-the-art technology that allows you and your team to stay connected and up-to-date with each other at all times.
How does it work?
Cloud technology is run on a giant network of servers, which are essentially big and powerful computers that are all connected together and run by large tech companies. Software providers purchase space on these servers to run their product which is then used by their customers.
The server is like a huge pipe of water and the software is a tap to access a tiny part of that water. By taking advantage of the vast computing power of many, external servers the software can be powered without having to take up space on your computer.
Why use it for job management software?
What’s so bad about storing software on your computer? It means that all the work you put into that software can only be accessed from that computer. This makes sharing and collaborating with others in your business tricky, prone to duplication or other errors creeping in. Using the Cloud means everyone can access the same software at once and make updates that show up across everyone’s devices in real-time. This makes it much more convenient for your business to use, giving you greater visibility into how your team are working.
What are the benefits of using Cloud-powered software?
- Instant updates
With the Cloud all changes to the software, such as creating a new job or updating a timesheet, will be reflected across everyone’s version of the software (both on desktops and mobile apps). This means you don’t have to worry about two people accidentally creating the same invoice twice or not knowing what jobs are allocated to who. - No more chasing up
The Cloud means you know the status of jobs, payments and staff whereabouts at all times so you don’t need to cold call everyone and chase up anything. As soon as something is completed you’ll be notified and updated. - Do more in less time
Using the Cloud ensures you only have to do tasks once and can complete them quickly and easily. You don’t have to punch in data across multiple platforms as every feature is connected to one another. For example, a completed job will take the hours from timesheets and expenses and convert them to an invoice without any manual entry from your staff.
