Cloud-based tools are the fastest growing tech solutions adopted and used by small businesses. In fact, 92% of small businesses are using a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) product even if they don’t realize it.
So, what exactly is the cloud? In the simplest terms, cloud computing is the delivery of on-demand computing resources over the internet. Cloud computing includes everything from applications and programs to storage and accessing data. If you’re using an online service for your bookkeeping, your newsletter, or to send email, your using cloud-based applications. Some of the most common cloud-based, pay-as-you-go business tools include CRMs, e-commerce platforms, calendars, accounting services, marketing automation, email, storage and file sharing.
And while it seems there is technology to support any functional area of your business, making the right tech decisions can be an overwhelming, time-consuming process involving countless hours of research. There are simply too many products and apps than anyone could ever test on their own.
92% of small businesses are using a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) product even if they don’t realize it. #SaaS #smallbusiness #techtips Share on XHere are five ways you can feel confident in your cloud-technology investments.
(Also, check out this detailed, helpful guide with 29 great questions to ask before you make a purchase.)
# 1. Determine Your Needs
One size does not fit all. As a small business, you’ll need to determine your specific goals and unique needs. Understanding what problems you’d like to solve and the business functions you’d like to streamline will help you get the most out of your tools. Take time to define your processes, workflows, and communications before making a selection. And remember, don’t layer on different products or tools if you find an issue with your internal processes.
# 2. Is there Value-Add
Cloud-based tools and technologies are built to make business processes easier and more efficient. They also make you more productive by providing you the ability to do business anywhere at any time – making your business truly portable. Just remember, when making an investment you want to look at features you’ll use to drive business outcomes, not what seems shiny or cool. Don’t get distracted by bells and whistles you don’t need. Again, don’t layer on tools if you can’t identify the value-add to your business operations or how you serve your customers.
# 3. Set a Budget
Cloud-based tools are more accessible, scalable and affordable than ever before – making them ideal for small businesses. When determining your budget, consider cost but pay for value. Meaning, evaluate how the tool solves your problem or supports the business function. You can start small and then scale up as your business grows. The great thing about cloud-based technologies is that they are consumption-based allowing you to only pay for what you use.
Additionally, many vendors offer different packages and levels of service. There are a lot of free trials (some with no credit card required) that allow you to try out the software before buying or subscribing. And don’t forget all the free apps. There are many that offer good value.
# 4. Difficulty in Using
Ease of use is key to the adoption of cloud-based tools. Products with too many features or a non-intuitive, difficult user interface will have a direct impact on your satisfaction. Not only that, if it’s hard to learn your team will struggle to use the tool to its full capacity. Usability challenges not only decrease adoption and productivity, they also increase the need for support and training which may mean additional costs in the long run.
# 5. Will it Integrate
To maximize the value of the different cloud-based tools or applications you’re considering you’ll want them to work together. It’s critical to look at integration capabilities when making your selection. You’ll want to ensure that the product will work with other applications that you’re either already using or plan on using. Integration can also become a challenge when a greater number of systems are involved – especially when linking diverse systems and products. You may need to construct a narrower, but still powerful group of tools.
Taking Next Steps
Now that you know how to get started and what questions to ask when looking for cloud-based tools for your small business, where do you go for product research, reviews and ratings?
There are a variety of free software review sites to help you do your research. These platforms aim to provide unbiased, personalized reviews that include summarized experiences, pros and cons, price comparisons and customer satisfaction ratings to help you objectively assess what is best for your business. The leading go-to sites include: Capterra, G2 Crowd, GetApp Software Advice, Finances Online and AppExchange.
You can also inquire with other small business owners regarding their must-have, go-to products and solutions. Chances are they have had a similar technology-related challenge and are willing to offer advice on potential solutions.
These resources will help shorten your research time and help you make well-informed decisions.
Remember, what matters most is that the tool fits your business needs to drive improved business outcomes. Otherwise, there’s no value-add for the cost.
Do you have a favourite cloud-based tool that you can’t live without? We’d love to hear about it.
About the Author
As the Founder and CEO of TechStak, Nicol Pasuit knows the significant challenges businesses face trying to leverage the right technologies. Pasuit has 19 years’ experience building and scaling businesses across the country. She is a serial intrapreneur turned entrepreneur. Pasuit left her corporate career to build TechStak – a company that helps small businesses find tech providers they can trust.
“For us, the problem was very real and very personal. But we could also see the solution: a full-fledged tech services marketplace that would help match top-rated technology providers with the businesses most in need of their services.”
Nicol has a passion for problem-solving as well as all things SaaS applications for small business. She is a speaker, a member of CompTia’s Advancing Women in Technology group, and is on a mission to simplify tech sourcing for small business.