As technology continues to give rise to innovations, more companies, including those in the manufacturing industry, begin to realize the importance of transforming the way they conduct business. In order to keep up with its competitors and to simplify business processes, manufacturing companies are starting to modernize their IT set-up by implementing cloud-based project management solutions.
What is Cloud Management?
Cloud management generally refers to web-based software and tools designed to monitor data and services that are stored and operated in the Cloud. The “cloud” is a storage system that allows information to be saved in virtual servers, which can be accessed anywhere in the world via internet.
Cloud management tools ensure that cloud-based services and applications like cloud storage and cloud computing are working optimally so that businesses can streamline end-to-end transactions. According to loadspring.com, implementing cloud management solutions will help companies improve documentation, communication and task management processes as there will be a centralized platform where all these processes can be stored, performed, and monitored. Cloud management helps manufacturing companies:
Increase Accessibility and Mobility
Manufacturing companies are commonly comprised of a corporate headquarters with plants located in different cities or states. By using a centralized cloud-based platform, users can work using any device while at the office, at home, in transit or while on an official business trip. Teams can easily collaborate with their counterparts on other sites, exchange information, presentation materials or images without having to send them as attachments to email. Users can also easily connect and hold meetings, which is essential during emergency situations.
Lowers IT Costs
Setting up and implementing a strong IT infrastructure can incur a huge amount of IT costs. Server maintenance, training of personnel, software licensing and upgrades are just some of the costs when implementing in-house IT hardware and software in multiple sites. With cloud-based solutions, a manufacturing company can save on highly specialized IT services and allocate its resources to other expenses that can help the business operate more efficiently.
Enhances Security
Cloud-based systems keep data safe and prevent companies from losing vital information due to cyber security threats, system crash, glitches or server downtime. Companies are assured that system back-ups and updates are regularly conducted in order to increase security of data in the Cloud. Geo-redundant back-up services are also available, allowing companies to save data in multiple locations. This helps improve security as information may be retrieved at another location when natural disasters such as typhoons or earthquakes occur in a particular area.
Provides Strategic Value
Cloud management services are operated by off-site experts, which enable companies to manage business processes from a single platform. Data can be easily stored, and reports and forecasts can be generated in real-time, allowing the management team to make decisions based on accurate information.
Cloud management solutions help manufacturing companies comprehensively integrate and manage their processes from a centralized data storage. By providing a complete view of different business processes, cloud-based solutions empower business owners to focus more on improving their products, services and policies.