In 2012, cloud computing shifted away from being a young technology that only played a minor role in operations and became a mainstream solution. As 2013 looms, many experts agree that the cloud will become an even more pervasive part of enterprise functionality. According to a recent report from the San Antonio Express-News, business cloud use has evolved from basic email solutions to fully featured storage platforms and other advanced functions. In time, the cloud will reach a point where it is established as a solution that enables business users to gain access to all of their data and applications anywhere.
Developing an operational climate that supports this type of functionality can be extremely challenging. Business process management software is emerging as a solution that enables organizations to take full advantage of the cloud's potential by integrating data and application systems while fostering mobile device use.
Cloud computing transforming enterprise operations
The news source explained that as cloud computing gains a more pervasive role in operations, the technology will have a substantial influence on enterprise functionality. One change being ushered in by the cloud is a shift in how individuals access operations.
Ed Hill, a professor in the College of Engineering and Information Sciences at DeVry University, told the news source that more users will begin turning to productivity applications and other solutions that are hosted in the cloud, giving them anytime, anywhere access to the solutions they use every day.
Industry expert Stephen Coty told the San Antonio Express-News that the progression of the cloud into a pervasive technology that allows users to perform compute tasks more flexibly will serve as a strategic enabler for startup businesses. Companies trying to get started in this difficult economy have to use technology as a strategic enabler. Cloud computing breaks down the capital barriers associated with getting a company going. At the same time, the technology also enables startups to access solutions that would normally be beyond their reach, enabling operational gains.
Using BPM to enable cloud functionality
Developing cloud systems that make these operational changes possible depends on being able to integrate various cloud systems and traditional IT solutions with one another. BPM software can play a major role in making this happen by not only integrating solutions, but also delivering the right data to end users when they need it.
Cindy Cheng
Director of Product Marketing
