A big benefit for construction professionals is utilizing cloud computing for its mobility. Whether at a job site or in the office, cloud computing allows the management of any aspect of a business anywhere there is an Internet connection and a mobile device. With cloud computing, tasks that used to require a presence at the office can be completed while out in the field.
Utilizing cloud computing can save businesses money by reducing IT costs, including server and computer upgrades and maintenance as well as the continuous purchase of new software and monitoring licenses. As businesses grow and expand, construction professionals can scale cloud computing needs to best suit their requirements.
Cloud computing can lead to better collaborations with clients and expedite the distribution of information when used in conjunction with Building Information Modeling (BIM). BIM is a method to generate and manage a digital representation of the physical and functional elements and characteristics of a facility.
For example, a combination of cloud computing and BIM creates data access for a client where a request for a change order can be made and the architect would then make changes to the building model. As a result, the contractor would access the new information, determine and order the exact amount of material needed, and make necessary changes to the construction schedule. The collaboration between client, architect, and contractor is handled efficiently and at any given time of the day.
There are many companies that provide cloud computing solutions tailored to the construction industry, including a wide range of solutions from estimating and takeoffs, to managing contracts, subcontractor and supplier bids, cash flows and budgets, and scheduling. There are options varying from complete solutions for managing all aspects of a construction business to individualized services including project management or payroll solutions.
When considering a cloud solution, business owners want a solution that will assist in running their business more efficiently and enable a faster project delivery. Before committing and investing in any cloud solution, business owners should request a free demo to test drive.
In order to perform an accurate cost comparison, determine what the current computing costs are including all software licensing and hardware costs. Moving computing needs into the cloud eliminates the need for the costly servers once needed to run all its software. In addition, business owners should be aware of all the costs of the cloud services purchased. There may be an increase in cost if the business grows or more users are added.
Also, will there be 24-hour support and what kind of turnaround is the vendor required to meet if an issue arises? Business owners should choose a provider that is always accessible and can resolve any issue quickly.
Cloud computing solutions with an Application Programming Interface (API) will be straightforward and easy to use. A complicated program may hamper employees for months, decreasing the businesses efficiency. This is where the free demo comes into play.
Everyone concerned wants to be assured that data is safe and secure. All providers should routinely backup businesses’ data and have multiple data centers where data is mirrored to provide enough redundancy should something critical happen to the main center where data is stored. By choosing a provider that encrypts data and provides data-leak prevention, business owners can be sure their data is secure.
Invariably, computer networks go down and business owners should look for providers that offer service priority and use multiple network paths to ensure the service is always available.
Cloud computing services should allow scalability and be able to grow with a business or shrink if it downsizes. Business owners should read and thoroughly understand the service agreement before making any decisions.
No comments:
Post a Comment