Cloud computing is an extremely sophisticated and complex technology, but all the end user sees is a convenient web application that works just as well on a smartphone as it does on a desktop PC. Because of this, the cloud can lull IT departments into a sense of security, assuming that cloud computing is simple. According to a recent TechTarget report, this misconception can create major headaches for IT departments because the cloud, while capable of delivering major productivity and cost gains, is also difficult to manage.
Business process management software provides the ability to integrate the cloud with mobile and social tools, getting the most out of the technology.
Dealing with cloud integration
TechTarget explained that one of the most challenging elements of getting used to the cloud is figuring out how to make it work well with other enterprise systems. Many companies that turn to Software-as-a-Service do so thinking that it will result in more application resources for a lower cost. While this is true, organizations also have to think about how the cloud applications will work with other solutions that they have to interact with on a day-to-day basis.
BPM software can pay major dividends in this area because it enables IT to establish process automation to streamline data flows between social, cloud and mobile costs. This provides major integration relief, especially since it focuses on making the data systems that users depend on work well together.
Dealing with unexpected costs
Cloud computing, especially when used to support bring your own device, can create unexpected costs. The report explained that as more employees use personal smartphones for work, with the company subsidizing the data plan, the costs will rise. This is particularly true as new devices with faster data rates are released, allowing users to consume even more cloud and mobile data.
BPM is also beneficial when addressing this concern because it allows employees to use the data at their fingertips more efficiently. Instead of having to access large quantities of information on their smartphones, BPM software can feed them just the important information they need for the process they are working on, ensuring that data consumption is controlled more effectively while enabling productivity gains.
Ben Farrell
Director of Corporate Communications
