Skip to main content

Cloud BPM serves as a launching point for opportunity

Cindy Cheng, ​Sr. Director of Marketing Communications, EMEA, Appian
July 30, 2013

Cloud-based applications are quickly becoming the go-to technology for any business to invest in. There are 101 reasons to adopt cloud BPM software for boosting efficiency, flexibility, cost savings, office agility, etc. In fact, Gartner and other industry research firms have noted expectations for spending on cloud service to be driven up to at least $210 billion by 2016. However, simply improving operations isn't the only factor to consider when investing in cloud services.

According to SYS-CON, there are important questions that any firm has to ask itself in relation to cloud adoption. Queries regarding security, accessibility, disaster recovery, management and the like all need to be addressed before a company launches a cloud campaign to completely replace business process management. While these tools are more versatile and drive increased value, businesses have to understand how and why in order to actually achieve those benefits.

The cloud isn't a fortress in the sky

The perception of the data center as a fortress for storing and protecting critical information falls by the wayside when it comes to the cloud. The cloud is all accessible, open and remote - attributes a fortress simply cannot have. Yet at the same time, it is these attributes that make the cloud so useful. This can present an interesting dilemma for businesses looking to improve operations through business process management solutions. While the security and accessibility merits of cloud solutions are up for consideration, the value that cloud BPM provides is unquestionable. The cloud isn't insecure, certain solutions are - it is up to a business to invest in the right tools to get the job done and adhere to it's own standards for security and flexible access.

Ultimately, cloud solutions boost the flow of information and productivity, allowing professionals to work smarter and harder with less actual effort. Part of this relies on the network infrastructure these employees use for work, but a large portion depends on the automation of basic processes in order to focus on more missioncritical areas of workflow. For most businesses, the adoption of cloud business process management software will allow them to boost overall productivity without sacrificing operational integrity - providing clear ROI for any cloud investments over time.

BPM isn't a black and white area, and by understanding the various factors that affect efficiency companies can make the right choice in selecting a process management solution.

Cindy Cheng

Director of Product Marketing

Cindy Cheng