By 2020, it is estimated that consumer cloud storage traffic will be 1.7 GB per month, per user. In the next four years, 2.3 billion users will be using personal cloud storage. It is no surprise then, that most people are now taking advantage of cloud storage in both personal and professional capacities. But storage is not the only benefit of cloud technologyit is gradually seeping into every aspect of the average workplace.
But how exactly is cloud technology affecting the average workload? Is the cloud really as revolutionary as people make it seem, or just an overhyped fluke? The truth is that there is no exaggeration here, cloud technology is not only useful for the average employee, it is quickly becoming essential. Here are just a few of the ways in which the average workload is handled through the cloud.
Training
Some of the first people to jump onboard and fully take advantage of the cloud were training companies. Through taking advantage of mobile learning management systems (LMS), they were able to provide certain tools that have completely transformed employee onboarding and training across the board. The cloud allows for companies to create and customize their training programs to fit the specific needs of their companies, and more importantly, each individual employee.
Cloud technology means that trainees are now in charge of their own learning process, able to log in to the LMS, start training, pause it, drive home, pick up a different device, and continue wherever they left off. It also means that managers and supervisors can access the LMS, keep track of progress, and communicate freely with trainees along the way. The freedom that cloud technology provides makes for a near-flawless training program.
Content
Arguably most heavily impacted by cloud technology is the way in which we create, share, and edit content of various kinds. Microsoft Office was once an indispensable staple of the global workforce, but while it is still commonly used by many, it is no longer even close to being necessary. Why? Largely thanks to services such as Google Drive that allow for creation and storage of content, as well as the ability to share with anyone and provide customizable editing options.
This naturally eases collaboration. Where someone would once have to send a Word document via email, wait for the recipient to view and comment or edit, and send it back, now a piece of writing or other content can be shared immediately and edits made and viewed in real time.
Remote Work
The two previous examples combine to cause a shift in workplaces that is still being slowly embraced and tested by employers. The ability to work remotely has never been easier than it is right now, thanks to cloud technology. In fact, in many lines of white collar work, there is little difference between working in an office and working at home. It is for this reason that there is now a whole portion of the workforce who have never even met their superiors face to face. The ease of remote work has also led to a more global workforce; employers are no longer limited by geographic boundaries when it comes to hiring.
The cloud is everywhere, and with that comes new conveniences, but also a few security concerns. Cyber security companies have already started providing cloud protection with their services, and with good security, any possible risks are not only minimal, but worth taking. The cloud is the future, and any serious business must take advantage of it.
