There is no disputing that cloud computing has changed the way global organisations operate. The technology has enabled organisations to act efficiently and usually at a reduced cost. Cloud computing modules can be deployed quickly and scaled up or down based upon software requirements and usage, so that organisations only pay for what they use. This means that organisations can now look to replace on-premise legacy technology with those applications offered via the cloud.
Sounds compelling. So what’s the downside?
Simply put – bespoke customisation. The promising offer of a flexible payment model and low upfront costs certainly make an outsourced approach tempting – but how flexible is the actual cloud solution? If an organisation was to adopt a true ‘multi-tenant’ cloud solution, where one product services multiple locations,then the flexibility within the solution remains limited.
That said, cloud technology does provide a certain amount of adaptability and configuration through the wide range of different technologies on offer. Organisations have the luxury to choose a product that suits their needs,rather than having to make a compromise. Recruiters can choose whether they want technology that is low cost and quick to deploy or technology that is a little more expensive and takes more time to deploy, but can be customised and is flexible enough to match the specific requirements of each location.
The knee jerk reaction would be to go for the model that is most cost effective from the outset – which is most likely to be a cloud solution. However, there is a strong case to be made for the benefits of taking a step back. Making the additional investment of time and money in the deployment phase can then result in an organisation having a product that has true longevity and meets critical business requirements. Add to this the ability to be flexible enough to deal with any changes within the organisation over time and you begin to realise the real value of making the extra effort in the initial stage.
