How Has Cloud Computing Impacted Data Analytics

Written by Bruce McKnight on .

The “cloud” is increasingly becoming more of a buzzword – and for good reason. Cloud computing, which involves storing data and making programs accessible via the Internet instead of a computer’s hard drive, offers a myriad of benefits, including slashing hardware costs, increased security, disaster recovery, automatic software updates, and more.

Cloud Computing Impacted Data Analytics

Cloud computing has already impacted how businesses and organizations, both big and small, operate. This is especially true in the area of data analytics. Since data analytics require a lot of storage space, it is logical that many industries are moving over toward the cloud. In fact, one study showed that 15% of business decision makers said that they already make use of cloud computing, while 74% said they hope to make use of a cloud-approach to analytics in the next three years.

Needless to say, cloud computing is already beginning to make its mark in terms of data analytics – here’s how:

  • Clouding Computing is Making Data Much More Accessible. In fact, a significant number of companies are not able to utilize their data to its maximum potential because of a lack of accessibility, which ultimately hinders businesses’ ability to meet their clients needs. However, cloud computing allows for employees to access data remotely from any location.
  • Less Money Spent on Servers (Small Companies Are Getting into Big Data Game). Since hosting and maintaining servers are moving to the domain of cloud service providers, this means that less money is spent on servers and is instead being allocated to bolstering staff or products. This is allowing small companies to compete with bigger organizations and get into the big data game.
  • Allows for Simultaneous Interpretation of Social Media Activity. Cloud computing now allows for the simultaneous interpretation of social media data, providing quick quantification of data, which is troublesome without the use of the cloud.
  • Enables the Tracking of User Information. Cloud computing allows user information, including preferences and tastes, to be remotely stored on the cloud so that preferences don’t change from computer to computer. Businesses can utilize this information to their advantage. Netflix, for example, used this information to create one of the most successful Internet-television series ever, House of Cards, which was based on data analysis that was stored in the cloud.
  • Making Tracking Products a Simultaneous Process. Cloud computing is now making it easier for businesses to track products across warehouses around the country. In fact, cloud analytics allows for the simultaneous recording and processing of this data regardless of the server’s location. That means that companies can then adjust production and shipments as necessary.

If you are interested in cloud computing for your company, contact us today.