What is “Cloud Computing” and how will it revolutionise events and membership management? James Greig, Chief Technical Officer and software expert at iVvy, talks about this new method of software distribution and the benefits for associations using it.

What is Cloud Computing? Well, in a nutshell, there is one major difference between traditional software and Cloud based software. Traditional software is stored on your computer’s hardrive or your server, whereas Cloud software is stored on the developer’s service and you gain access to the software via an Internet login. Examples of cloud computing include Gmail, Salesforce, Facebook and iVvy - Cloud based software for enterprise-class conference and events management.

Of course, there are many small differences between the two and the advantages of Cloud computing are far reaching. One major positive is the accessibility of Cloud computing software from anywhere in the world. All you need is an Internet connection and it becomes possible for you to organise your event, or manage your memberships, from wherever you are. This is perfect for associations with a dispersed or mobile team and it helps improve communications and organisational structure.

Another very important benefit to Cloud computing is the cost factor. Computing hardware is expensive. There’s the initial purchase, ongoing maintenance fees and electricity bills that can quickly burn into a company’s budget, particularly for the smaller association. With Cloud computing software all you really need is a computer and access to the Internet, allowing you to funnel your savings back into your business rather than into infrastructure. The other advantage of not having the software stored on your own hardware is that you will benefit from immediate software upgrades as they happen, as well as 24 hour, seven day a week server maintenance from experienced technicians.

As a result of cloud technology, associations have a means of reducing costs usually associated with licenses and having to hire permanent IT staff to manage and maintain in-house servers or deal with upgrades and ongoing maintenance. Now they can focus their budgets on membership and delivery of educational and other objectives rather than major infrastructure and up front capital costs.

I am often asked about the security factors of Cloud computing, particularly in the wake of the recent hacking examples. While I cannot speak for all Cloud computing companies, I can say that iVvy take security very seriously and have implemented a number of security measures to ensure the integrity of our client’s data. If you are contemplating investing in a Cloud computing service, always ask for a copy of the company’s security documentation. This document should outline the measures they take in the interest of security. If they can’t provide such documentation, I would not opt for their services.

In my opinion, Cloud computing software, with its cost efficiency, accessibility, automatic updates and high security, is going to revolutionise today’s event and membership management for associations.

Cloud Computing for Associations in a Nutshell

1. It’s cheaper
2. It’s safer
3. It’s more convenient
4. It’s portable
5. It improves communication
6. It allows for regular, automatic software updates