Cloud computing

Definition

Cloud computing is a technology that allows individuals and organizations to access and store data and applications over the internet instead of on local servers or personal computers. It provides scalable resources, enabling users to easily increase or decrease their IT capabilities based on demand, which is crucial for sustainable ventures looking to expand efficiently without significant upfront investment in physical infrastructure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cloud computing enables businesses to reduce costs related to IT infrastructure by providing on-demand resources that can be scaled up or down as needed.
2. It promotes collaboration by allowing multiple users to access and work on the same documents or applications simultaneously from different locations.
3. Data stored in the cloud can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, enhancing flexibility for remote work and travel.
4. Many cloud services offer pay-as-you-go pricing models, making it easier for sustainable ventures to manage cash flow while minimizing financial risk.
5. Security features such as data encryption and regular backups are often built into cloud services, providing enhanced protection against data loss and cyber threats.

Review Questions

• How does cloud computing facilitate the scaling of sustainable ventures?
  • Cloud computing allows sustainable ventures to easily scale their IT resources according to demand. This flexibility means that when a business experiences growth or increased user traffic, they can quickly increase their server capacity or storage without needing to invest heavily in new hardware. Conversely, during slower periods, they can reduce their resource usage, ensuring they only pay for what they need while maintaining operational efficiency.
• In what ways can cloud computing enhance collaboration among teams in sustainable businesses?
  • Cloud computing enhances collaboration by providing platforms where teams can share files, communicate, and work together in real-time from different locations. Tools like document sharing applications allow multiple users to edit documents simultaneously, fostering teamwork and reducing time spent on revisions. This collaborative environment not only boosts productivity but also supports innovative solutions within sustainable ventures by harnessing diverse perspectives.
• Evaluate how the adoption of cloud computing could influence the long-term sustainability of a business model.
  • The adoption of cloud computing can significantly influence the long-term sustainability of a business model by promoting resource efficiency and reducing carbon footprints associated with traditional IT infrastructures. Businesses can minimize energy consumption by utilizing shared resources in data centers that are often optimized for energy efficiency. Additionally, cloud services enable rapid innovation and adaptability, allowing businesses to pivot in response to changing market conditions while maintaining environmental responsibility.

Related terms

Software as a Service (SaaS): A software distribution model in which applications are hosted by a service provider and made available to customers over the internet.

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): A form of cloud computing that provides virtualized computing resources over the internet, allowing users to rent IT infrastructure such as servers and storage.

Platform as a Service (PaaS): A cloud computing model that provides a platform allowing customers to develop, run, and manage applications without dealing with the complexity of building and maintaining the underlying infrastructure.