Cloud Computing and its affect on Drycleaners
Cloud Computing for Drycleaners
Is Cloud computing from Google, Microsoft and others in your Drycleaners/Laundry future?
Lets face it, us Drycleaners aren't computer experts are we.
We just want to operate our business and hopefully have our computer
be a benefit and not a distraction or a headache.
One of the headaches
we face with Computers in general is the regular tasks
of backing up data, installing updates, and help with its operation. And that's probably a
major reason why in today's automated world, drycleaners are one of the last
businesses you will find that still operate without computers.
If you do have a computer, you might have 3 or 4 different software programs
that you use; Word processing, Accounting, Sign Makers, etc. and,
of course, your Drycleaners Software program. On a regular basis
you are bombarded with upgrade notices for each of them. To stay current
you have to install the updates and worry about whether the new features
will benefit you or if you will have to re-learn the whole program.
Also, one of the most important things a drycleaner needs to do
is backup the customer, accounts receivable and other important data on
a regular basis. How often should you backup? Where should you keep a
copy of that backup? What if your store burns down or your computer is
stolen? All of these things are concens for a drycleaner.
Legal Matters are also a giant headache. Starting in July 2010 all credit card
companies are requiring your processing be compliant with the current rules and
regulations.
You might have to upgrade your stand-a-lone terminal hardware, if that is what
you are using, resulting in several hundred dollars of unwanted and un-neccesary
expenses.
All of the above headaches are solved with Cloud Computing. But, how many
headaches are added you might ask? First lets discuss exactly what
Cloud Computing is and then we'll see how it effects Dry Cleaners and Laundries.
What Is Cloud Computing?
Clouds are a set of mulitple computers that deliver
software over the Internet. This allows a software environment that doesn't
limit an application to a specific computer. Applications can grow dynamically
and increase its share of resources on-demand as needed. So, when using a cloud,
you can use as little, or as much, computing power as you need. The "Cloud"
terminology comes from the picture that looks like a cloud when computer
designers draw a picture of the internet.
So, a cloud is really the internet and
its set of computers that support its operation.
All of the above headaches are solved with Cloud Computing. But, what are the
disadvantages you might ask? Lets look at the advantages and disadvantages of
Cloud Computing as it effects Dry Cleaners and Laundries.
Cloud Computing Advantages for Drycleaners
- You don't have to backup your data.
- Your programs are on the Cloud and are updated automatically.
- You no longer have to buy updates.
- Things like Credit Card Hardware updates are eliminated.
- Less expensive computer hardware required
- If a computer breaks, simply attach another to the internet and startup again.
- You can gain secure access to your Drycleaning computer from work, home,
or on the road.
Cloud Computing Disadvantages
- You will have to pay a monthly fee to a hosting or cloud provider.
- Pick a good provider to make sure your data is secure.
- Security breaches are possible (but unlikely).
- Requires a high speed internet connection.
Summary
As the popularity of computers and the internet goes forward it is very likely
that Cloud Computing will grow much like Internet Browsing grew over the last 10
years. As a result, as Drycleaners, we can expect to see some of the following
things happen:
- Less expensive computers.
- Less expensive software programs for Drycleaners.
- Reduced technical support prices.
- Increased internet speed and lower cost.
Our recommendation to customers is that Cloud Computing is worth a look see, if
not now, then definately over the next year or two.
Drycleaner News
Every Drycleaner needs to work smarter. If you are not computerized, or are using an outdated system, you will be left behind....
Magazine, March 24, 2006
Using your computer system for marketing is the smartest thing a drycleaner can do...
Magazine, July 12, 2006