Big data and cloud computing are two of the most fundamental technologies that are changing the business landscape as we know it. The rapid shift to doing business online means that more data is being collected than ever before, from personal info on social media networks to banking details and medical records. Data has undoubtedly become one of the most valuable business commodities.
Data analytics can give businesses incredible insight into their customers, their products and even their internal processes, which enhances decision-making and can help companies make the necessary adjustments to increase revenue and grow their market share. However, big data must be efficiently stored, processed and analysed to gain these valuable insights. This is where cloud computing comes in. Big data coupled with cloud computing is a powerful combination that can benefit both large and small businesses.
The Benefits of Combining Big Data and Cloud Computing
As data quantities get larger, it becomes costly and unfeasible for businesses to store all their data on on-site servers. These on-premise servers require massive computing power and physical space, as well as regular maintenance and security upgrades, which significantly increase human and capital expenses for businesses. Cloud computing allows companies to easily store and process data in the cloud at a fraction of the cost of on-site servers.
The combination of big data and cloud computing has numerous benefits:
Improved Analytics & Data Processing
Analysis and processing of big data in the cloud can yield better results in much shorter time. Predictive analysis helps companies plan ahead and make more strategic decisions across the organisation. The cloud also enables the gathering of data sets from multiple sources for real-time analysis and processing.
Scalability & Cost Reductions
A cloud solution moves businesses from a CAPEX model to an OPEX model as there is little to no upfront investment in infrastructure or associated support and maintenance services. Furthermore, you only pay for what you need on a per-month basis and can scale up or down at any time to suit your individual business requirements.
Security & Maintenance
Businesses that adopt a cloud solution no longer need to manage the costs of maintaining on-premise servers or ensuring that the latest patches and security upgrades are rolled out consistently. Cloud service providers manage these tasks on their end. Depending on their SLA, cloud providers are responsible for ensuring that your data is stored, processed and transferred securely, and is also protected from malicious attacks and other cyber security risks.
There was a time when only large-scale enterprises had the resources to process big data and reap the benefits of data analysis, but with the rise of cloud computing, these doors are now open to smaller businesses in a scalable environment that can be tailored to suit individual needs and budgets.
Cloudlogic specialises in cloud service provisioning, with experts that can analyse your business needs and offer you bespoke solutions to optimise systems and processes across your organisation.
Enrico is a copywriter, author, content producer and radio broadcaster with over 16 years of experience. He has worked
in various media, marketing and creative roles since graduating from the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal with a B.A degree
in Media & Communications. In 2017, he was appointed to the role of Conceptual Copywriter at Cloudlogic and its sister
companies under the Rewardsco Group.