Solving Problems Faster: Cloud Storage Solutions for Modern Challenges

During the pandemic, cloud storage solutions proved to be essential by enabling businesses to operate remotely almost instantly. It continues to show its value in many ways, helping organizations manage uncertainty, build resilient supply chains, and stay adaptable. Cloud-based storage solutions offer scalability, flexibility, and access to the latest technology through Software as a Service (SaaS), driving innovation like never before.

According to Madhan Raj J, the future of the cloud looks even more promising. By 2030, the cloud could add $3 trillion to the earnings of the world’s 2,000 largest companies. By 2025, it’s expected that 85% of organizations will adopt a “cloud-first” approach, with nearly all new digital workloads being launched on cloud-native platforms. In India, 40% of companies are expected to be using some type of cloud service, including hybrid cloud storage solutions, by 2024.

As companies become more advanced in their use of cloud technology, providers are offering more innovative services to meet their growing needs. Organizations, in turn, should take advantage of these cloud opportunities to stay competitive. Here are some key points to think about for the future:

Move to an Industry Cloud Platform

Industry Cloud Platforms (ICPs), also called vertical cloud platforms, provide software, platform, and infrastructure tailored to the specific needs of different industries, including compliance, data, and business requirements. Unlike generic cloud-based storage solutions, ICPs offer more specialized services and better integration with the systems used in the industry, making it easier for businesses to collaborate and share data. For example, Salesforce Financial Services Cloud helps financial institutions access better data for planning and engagement, while Microsoft Cloud for Retail enhances supply chains and shopping experiences.

Other advantages of ICPs include adaptability of processes, innovation through partner marketplaces, access to a wide network of industry players, and cross-industry learning. By 2027, over 70% of organizations are expected to use an industry cloud platform.

Combine AI with Cloud

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cloud computing go hand in hand. Cloud provides the ideal infrastructure for AI, offering the large computing power, storage, and scalability needed for advanced AI applications like predictive analytics and natural language processing. Cloud, especially hybrid cloud storage solutions, also help businesses streamline operations and make large data sets accessible to AI for analysis. AI-powered cloud services can analyze consumer behavior, predict market trends, prevent fraud, and improve decision-making across industries. For example, Amazon’s AI-driven recommendation system boosts customer engagement, while Microsoft’s AI cloud solutions can improve patient care and administrative tasks in healthcare. As businesses advance in their AI journey, they’ll find the most powerful AI tools in the cloud.

Embrace Cloud-Native Development

Cloud-native development is more than just technology—it’s also about a new way of working. Using technical features like microservices, containerization, and dynamic orchestration, cloud-native applications are scalable, responsive, and resilient. Enterprises can use DevOps practices to develop and deploy applications quickly and continuously. This approach supports rapid innovation and prototyping, allowing businesses to stay agile and competitive. Major services like Netflix and Airbnb, known for their innovation, are built on cloud-native platforms and often leverage cloud storage solutions to manage data more efficiently. Cloud-native development is the future, and companies should embrace it without delay.

Maximize the Benefits of Edge Computing and Cloud

Edge computing works well with cloud computing, particularly for time-sensitive tasks. While the cloud can handle big jobs like advanced analytics and long-term storage, edge computing processes data closer to its source—such as on user devices or local servers. This helps reduce delays, bandwidth use, and costs, making it ideal for scenarios where low latency or poor connectivity is a concern, like mining operations or remote factories. For instance, edge computing is crucial for real-time monitoring in autonomous vehicles or managing deep-sea oil rigs. As IoT (Internet of Things) applications grow, edge computing combined with cloud-based storage solutions will provide businesses with more flexibility and scalability.