83 percent of workloads will run on the cloud by 2020, according to a survey conducted by LogicMonitor. This is a combination of public cloud usage at 41 percent, private cloud usage at 20 percent and the hybrid cloud at 22 percent usage. Anyway you look at it, the 83 percent of workloads running on cloud computing comprises a significant portion of the work being conducted in the entrepreneurial sphere.

You may be asking yourself what in the world clouds have to do with computing. Well, these days, the answer is a lot. The cloud is an Internet-hosted service, using a network of servers, computers, and software. Users are given access to the cloud (of which there are several) in exchange for a fee, depending on the amount of computer power that is needed.

Operating as an alternative to in-house servers, the cloud is able to run programs such as Microsoft 365, Dropbox and Gmail, for example. The cloud is also able to store information. Yet another benefit is that different users can work on the same document at the same time and not step on anyone else’s work product.

There’s quite a bit to be said about the cloud – and quite a lot is, in fact, being said. Unfortunately, there are several rumors floating around that just aren’t true. Herewith, we will attempt to put these rumors to bed as we perform some debunking.

1. The cloud does not provide enough security for my law firm’s sensitive data.

Though it’s true that no technology is totally exempt from security breaches, cloud security implements a number of security safeguards, including duplicate geographical locations, stringent user authentication, constant monitoring, data redundancy, encryption, regular backups and much more.

That being said, it behooves a law firm to take precautions. Take advantage of managed cloud services to help you protect your data. Request a demo with PracticePanther to learn more about the 256-bit military grade encryption, HIPAA compliance, two-step authentication system, customer security settings, and automated off-site backups. With this software, you’re able to perform security due diligence, manage access, protect data and monitor the system.

2. The cloud is a passing trend.

According to Forrester, a technology research and advisory firm, by the end of 2018, the cloud market will grow at a 22 percent compound annual growth rate. The company also predicts that more than 50 percent of enterprises will depend on at least one cloud platform.

3. Moving to the cloud costs too much.

Simply put: the benefits outweigh the costs.

Consider this: productivity goes up because of increased reliability and user access anytime, anywhere. What’s more, the costs of maintaining one’s own server are reduced or eliminated.

4. With the cloud, migration comes with too many changes, including having to use different applications.

Chances are, you won’t notice much of a difference once you move to the cloud. The changes you will notice are positive, such as increased collaboration and being able to remotely access your data. Virtually everything else operates under the hood.

5. No one needs the cloud – our current infrastructure works well enough.

Your current infrastructure has a limited amount of time before becoming technologically obsolete or plain old ancient and worn out. The cloud’s infrastructure is always up to date with the latest hardware and software, which gives its users a decidedly clean advantage over competitors. In addition, the cloud promotes collaboration and allows a user to have access anytime and anywhere there is an Internet connection. Getting a server is similar to purchasing an outdated vehicle that constantly breaks down and needs additional maintenance, whereas being on the cloud is analogous to leasing the latest model of a self-updating car with unlimited access to a representative for all your questions or needs.

6. Moving to the cloud will be a piece of cake.

Moving to the cloud is no easy task. It requires considerable thought, before any action takes place, about such things as your law practice’s specific needs, the process of data migration, solutions that might come from cloud computing, systems integrations and more. With careful planning, moving to the cloud can become an organized migration and not a chaotic turn of events.

7. Cloud computing is an immature technology.

Cloud computing has been around for at least 10 years. True, it is evolving at a rapid pace. But more companies are hopping on the cloud and finding the benefits to be well worth joining the cloud sooner rather than later. Across the board, companies are investing in the cloud to the profit of their businesses.

8. Cloud computing does not provide technical support.

One of the top reasons for going with the cloud is that it is monitored 24/7/365 by technicians ready to help you should something go amiss.

9. Cloud providers are the number one reason for data breaches.

According to Gartner, another research and advisory firm, clients will cause 95 percent of security snafus through 2020. The operators of cloud systems are fully trained, while most users have not enjoyed the extensive training.

Conclusion

Cloud computing is definitely zeroing in on a line straight towards the computing future. There are varying degrees in which a law firm can harness this brilliant future. Many law firms today use more than one cloud-based platform, depending on the needs of the company. One of the great features of the cloud is that the services available within it are scalable. Whether you are a huge law firm owner or a solo practitioner, the cloud has what you need: accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and security.