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Five Reasons Carriers are Better Partners for Cloud Computing in Maine

Posted on January 17, 2012 by Trevor Jones

More and more, businesses are turning to Cloud Computing for many key functions that were formerly accomplished with on-site equipment. Some use a Hosted PBX for a Business Phone System, Hosted Exchange for email and calendar management, or a Hosted Storage product for data backup and recovery. Others may be using applications like Salesforce.com for customer relationship management.

Whatever application you use, you’ll have number of vendors to choose from. Some, large and small, market their services mainly by the Internet and do business from faraway places and data centers. Their customers rely on the public Internet to access their data. More and more however, the carriers that operate local broadband networks are getting into Cloud computing. These carriers offer a number of benefits vis-a-vis their faraway competitors, including:

1. High Performance: Carriers, who control both the Cloud Computing and the network connecting the business to the cloud, can manage the experience from end to end, so you have low-latency connections that ensure that IT assets in the cloud are as responsive as those in your back room.

2. Data Security: Carriers often offer “private clouds” using point to point networks and MPLS connections that don’t connect to the public Internet, enhancing their security. Encryption can be added for further data protection.

3. Convenience: For many years, carriers have highlighted the convenience to their customers of purchasing voice and data services from one vendor. This reduces finger-pointing among providers and saves time and effort as compared to managing disparate relationships. Adding cloud computing to the carrier portfolio magnifies this benefit.

4. Cost Savings: Another benefit to working with a carrier for Cloud Computing is the savings from bundling. Most carriers offer discounts to customers who buy multiple services, and your business can take advantage of these. In this way, consolidating your spend with your carrier can put your IT dollars to work on reducing your telecom bill.

5. Local Support: At a minimum, most carriers have installers and salespeople locally who can help you in a crisis. Local carriers like GWI have their entire support staff in Maine – people who speak your language, know your area, and understand what’s happening in Maine. When you buy Cloud Computing services online, you may find that they have no presence in the Northeast, let alone in Maine.