There has been much hype about Cloud Computing being the next big thing. Many people view Cloud Computing as a costly modification to make; but it might be time to think of it as an opportunity to cut costs.

Most companies have not invested significantly in technology over the last two or three years, due to budget constraints, and there is pent up demand for technology refresh at many levels. Servers and PCs need replacing and software updating. Now might be the time to think about Cloud Computing.

The hSo Cloud offers many options for Cloud Computing including owned or rented dedicated or virtual servers, with full virus protection and data back-up, connected via MPLS to your office(s) at a competitive monthly fee. Ongoing maintenance and support is done for you reducing complexity and downtime.

It's true that by using Software as a Service (SaaS), you'll incur a monthly subscription charge -- but this cost may be more than offset by savings elsewhere.

For a start, you won't need to buy licenses, or servers on which to run the software. There are no external hosting costs, nor internal ones. You won't have to waste your valuable time installing, patching, upgrading and troubleshooting the software. Some staff who need remote access to your applications can be given inexpensive netbooks, instead of high-end laptops laden with expensive software, painstakingly installed.

Using the Cloud converts CAPEX into OPEX and reduces the need for up front funding. Cloud Computing together with process reengineering will help companies do what they do more efficiently and effectively.

The benefits: greater resilience and better performance at the same or lower cost than today... surely the IT Holy Grail.

hSo has helped companies save significant sums of money by using the hSo Cloud. Let us help you improve services whilst saving money.

Chris Evans, Managing Director of hSo