Web Development for the Cloud Not So Airy-Fairy

Web design in the sky with diamonds may actually be the sensible option…

Cloud computing is no longer a buzzword. The idea of storing your data offsite and hosting the applications or software that you use on a server is yesterday’s news. Pfft! Cloud computing? That’s so 2007!

The idea of web development for the cloud seems to have faded into the background because of ongoing concerns about security. It’s understandable that businesses don’t like relinquishing total control of all their sensitive data and business-critical software and files. However, prominent IT personalities are now saying that security is actually a reason TO incorporate cloud-based tools, storage and apps in your website and business practices. So, are you actually doing your company a disservice by keeping your data ground-bound, while the rest of its playmates are playing ping-pong with Jimi Hendrix “up there”? It all depends…

Refresher: Why’s the Cloud So Great?

Cloud computing is like a pork roast that’s all crackling, without the boring pork bits! The main benefits are pretty impressive:

• Scalability and flexibility
• Almost zero setup cost
• No need for in-house IT staff to manage emergencies
• Ability to collaborate in real-time

The main drawback perceived by companies has always been the ’security’ issue.

Does the Security Issue REALLY Rain on the Cloud’s Parade?

However silly it might sound to give all your sensitive data and mission-critical programs to a third-party, the cloud may actually be MORE secure than the old-school method of keeping everything in house. Ask yourself the following questions:

Do I back up all my data every single night? (If your business is data-heavy,) Do I back up multiple times per day?

Do I install every recommended anti-virus and firewall update immediately?

Do I install every software patch immediately?

Do I have the highest level of encryption on my data when sent from one place to another?

Is my IT person on call 24 hours a day?

If you answered no to any of the above, you may actually have better security in the cloud.

What Do We Reckon?

So, enough about them, let’s talk about us! At Lava, we see the cloud as an opportunity that really shouldn’t be wasted. We take care to ensure that your cloud is as solid as possible, through:

• Identifying the aspects of your web development that are right for the cloud. If it belongs on earth with you, that’s where we put it.
• Careful selection of cloud partners. We want people that are there when you need them and who have stringent security procedures. We also want businesses with a proven reputation for keeping their promises and a long trading history
• Matching your cloud usage precisely to your needs.

We like to aim for the stars in our website design … and the cloud is certainly on the way there!