2011 is here and predictions for economic growth are better than in previous years. How can your small-medium growing business capitalize on:

• The predicted economic upswing?
• The growing trends and services in Cloud Computing?

Your big 4 resolutions for 2011 are here!

1. Take that small step into the cloud if you haven’t yet…
   1. It’s no secret, Cloud computing gives small and mid-sized businesses IT capabilities they traditionally could not afford
   2.  Going into the cloud gives you the benefits of a robust system with little overhead and less risk than an in-house solution
   3. Cloud computing systems make you look bigger than you are, allow you to offer better services, and manage your business assets more efficiently
   4. Many concerns about the cloud (ex: cost and security) have been addressed
      
      
2. ...if you stepped into the cloud in 2010, take it to the next level in 2011.
   1. Improve and look for features you missed during setup: When companies first get into the cloud they often miss a bit. Implementations may be an over-generic and simple because it’s all so new
   2. Invest in another system: Now that you know something about how the cloud works and its strengths vs. dangers, analyze your business and look for areas where cloud can provide value
      
      
3. Leverage the power of the cloud with mobile devices to make the “mobile workplace” a reality in your business
   1. One of Cloud computing’s major advantages is that it is safely accessible wherever you are, as long as you have a wireless signal – and this is NOT restricted to laptops
   2. Apple’s iPad and iPhone, along with the many Android devices have allowed users to access the cloud anywhere, anytime via their smart phone/device
   3. Leading cloud computing vendors like Box.net have embraced the trend and are offering very good applications that make using your company system easy, quick, safe, and VERY mobile!
      
      
4. Improve Efficiency and Customer Satisfaction: Integrate Your Website with Your Cloud and Break the Communication Barrier
   1. Ecommerce - When a customer submits an order, operations such as packing, shipping, and re-ordering stock can all be kicked off via notifications from your cloud system.
   2. Logistics - Inventory is managed and measured via matrix in your cloud system and your website can dynamically reflect items stock numbers
   3. Logistics - Less errors take place as you integrate your customer input into your system - from addresses on packing slips to product specifications.
      1. This means clients who get their product more quickly, and get exactly what they ordered
   4. Marketing - As your system works with your website, you can track which user views and purchases which products, and customize their web experience, as well as market to them more directly.
   5. Customer Service - Without any staff effort, clients find satisfaction by tracking their product through your website, as your system reports its location en route