Although the thought of "The Cloud" may seem daunting, it is not something to be feared. "The Cloud" is one of those trendy tech terms a lot of people use but can't clearly define. But what actually is it? And how can it benefit your business?
95% of people use The Cloud and just don't know it.
If you use any kind of social media (Facebook, LinkedIn or the like) or online data drive (DropBox, etc.) or online email (Gmail, Hotmail, etc.), you're already using The Cloud every day.
The first thing you should understand about The Cloud is that it is not a physical thing, nor are your files floating aimlessly around space.
The Cloud is a network of servers, and each server has a different function. Some servers use computing power to run applications or "deliver a service." Other servers in the network are responsible for storing data. RMS uses both these kinds.
Simply put, Cloud-computing is the world of files and resources offered to users via the Internet.
The Cloud allows you access to your files (software and information) from anywhere with an Internet connection. For example, instead of loading up your Memory Stick with files only to later misplace it, or worse, for your computer to pack-in, losing all your documents, information, photos and files, if you upload these to The Cloud you can then access this information from any Internet-capable device, in any location, at any time.
This includes your RMS PMS system. Manage your business from a laptop at home, a tablet at the beach or on your smart-phone while playing a round of golf. - Easy!
Guess what, that thing you use to check in, share pics and promote your business is all happening in The Cloud! Social Media, such as Facebook, is a cloud-based communication method, allowing you to communicate with all corners of the world.
Why not use this technology to your advantage? The RMS Guest Marketing Module uses The Cloud to store images and contacts so you can create dynamic email campaigns with easy to use drag and click options.
You could write a cheque, put it in an envelope, stick a stamp on it and stick it in the mailbox three days in advance, just to make sure your Electric Bill is paid on time, OR create an online account and pay with the click of a button, as well as run reports and make it easier for your guests to pay you.
Simply put, if you already access the internet to share, save or gather information, you're working in The Cloud.
The list goes on, but here are some examples of Cloud-Based Services we use every day:
We know what you're probably thinking, "How does this differ from the PMS I have now?" and "What about my data and sensitive information, can just anyone access it if it's in The Cloud?"
In short, no. It means we store (host) your data in high-security data centres across the globe that we continue to invest highly in, instead of locally on one computer in your back-office. So you can access your information anywhere from any web-capable device. This also means you save on several extra costs such as Hardware Cost, Maintenance, constantly updating Third party IT and Security (Anti-Virus/Hacking Software).
Being on the RMS Cloud means you're MORE SECURE!
As a cloud-based RMS customer we take care of all these headaches for you by providing a fast, easy-to-use software you can use anywhere, with live back-ups and 24/7 support, all while knowing that you and your guest's data is protected by Government Level Security, supported by IBM and regularly validated & tested! For more information visit IBM Softlayer
Our highly-trained staff are on hand to deal with any of your queries or assist you with the change over to The Cloud, 03 8399 9462 OPT 2
