The cloud has revolutionized the way businesses operate. It allows companies to access their data and applications from anywhere in the world, on any device. These features are especially beneficial for manufacturing factories, which often require real-time access to data and applications in order to keep production running smoothly.
So what are the main advantages to using cloud technology in your manufacturing plant? Is it a worthy investment? Here’s what you need to know:
Benefits of the Cloud for Manufacturing
There are several benefits to using manufacturing cloud services. Here are some of the top reasons experts recommend the cloud:
Scalability
In the past, if a manufacturing company wanted to increase its production capacity, it would need to invest in new hardware and software. With cloud for manufacturing businesses, all you need to do is add more users or subscribe to a higher-capacity plan. This can save you a lot of money, especially if your company undergoes frequent staffing changes.
Cost Savings
With cloud-based solutions, you only need to pay for what you use. There is no need to invest in hardware or software that you may not need in the future. Cost savings also come from the reduced need for buying, configuring, and maintaining expensive servers.
Advanced Security
Cloud-based applications are just as secure—if not more secure—than their on-premise counterparts. This is because cloud providers invest heavily in security, and they often have teams of experts dedicated to keeping data safe. Data centers are generally protected by various layers of both physical and virtual security.
In addition, managed cloud providers offer round-the-clock support, meaning security patches are applied as soon as they become available.
Faster Implementation
Another advantage of the cloud for manufacturing is that solutions can be implemented much faster than on-premise solutions. This is because you don’t need to worry about installing and configuring the software or hardware, or working around legacy systems. You can easily integrate cloud-based solutions into your existing infrastructure.
Quicker Production Rates
Production increases when downtime is kept to a minimum—and reputable cloud providers are able to maintain a near 100% uptime rate. Because solutions are easy to integrate with one another, it’s also simpler to automate certain operations and implement instant notification alerts so that any interruptions in production can be dealt with immediately.
Improved Collaboration
Cloud-based solutions make it easier for employees to collaborate with each other. For example, if you’re using a cloud-based ERP system, multiple users can access the same data and make changes in real-time.
Cons of Cloud Computing for Manufacturing
Now that you know the advantages of the cloud for your business, you may be wondering if there’s a downside. Here are some potential negatives of opting for cloud computing for your business:
Data Confidentiality
Some worry that hosting their data in the cloud compromises its integrity. While this is untrue, there are alternatives to the public cloud services such as private clouds and VPNs for your on-prem servers that ensure you maintain 100% confidentiality of your data.
Dependent on Internet Connection
Cloud solutions are dependent on an internet connection, so wireless disruptions can affect the functionality of your systems. That said, if you’re working with a reliable managed service provider for your cloud solutions, they can provide exceptional network speed and uptime rates so your solutions stay working seamlessly.
Compliance
Because cloud solutions are generally hosted by a third party, you’ll want to make sure that your data is being stored according to your industry compliance regulations. Your MSP should be able to provide full compliance solutions to support your regulatory needs, but it’s wise to double-check.
The Bottom Line
There are several advantages of using cloud technology in your manufacturing factory. While there can be some downsides, many of those are offset by reliable solutions from a trusted MSP. If you’re thinking of moving to the cloud, we suggest you talk to a cloud expert to see how it can benefit your business.
Want to learn more? Reach out to Full Send Networks today. We’re experts in the manufacturing industry and we have solutions that can increase your productivity and accessibility without compromising security.
