The use of public storage clouds like Microsoft Azure or Amazon Web Services to host organisational data is not new. Neither is the use of Software as a Service (SAAS) such as Salesforce or Xero. Nevertheless, I still hear about organisations trying to replace old servers.

Stop! 

Here are some reasons why Associations should be in the cloud instead.

7 Reasons why Associations should be in the Cloud:

1. Cloud providers are likely to be better at network security than you;
2. You no longer have to worry about server maintenance and replacements;
3. You can add data storage easily if needed;
4. Off-site back-ups are no longer an issue;
5. You no longer need to worry about the cost of a properly-sized (and expensive) Universal Power Supply aka battery for your servers to ensure business continuity in the case of an onsite power failure.
6. It’s often easier to budget for recurring expenses rather than one-off capital expenditures; and
7. It’s often easier (and therefore cheaper) to share data through integrations and automations in cloud applications.
8. BONUS: You’re futureproofing the organisation for whatever comes next.

All these benefits do not come without risks, however. Your IT manager or outsource provider is still required to properly manage security access, as well as data storage to avoid budget creep. Furthermore, even the largest data centres in the world will go down from time to time. So, if you have alternative processes in place to deliver your services now, be sure to document them as backup.

Let me know if you have further questions about how to futureproof your organisation by migrating to the cloud.

Tammy Ven Dange is a former charity CEO, Not for Profit Board Member and IT Executive. Today she helps NFPs with IT decisions.