Cloud communication is a well-known means of connecting people. When a primitive version of what we call ‘the internet’ was first developed, it allowed two people to communicate without being in the same room. Nowadays, almost everyone is interconnected through our use of devices. We live in an era of collaborative working, with people worldwide able to work together on projects and tasks.
The rise of IoT (and beyond)
Cloud communication has the capability to connect not only people but also objects in a secured manner. And with the rise of IoT, this is becoming increasingly significant.
Statista estimates that 18 billion IoT devices are connected to the cloud, forecasted to rise by an extra 14.1 billion by 2030. The cloud is a central data storage and management hub, allowing us to use these devices efficiently across different industries. IoT devices are more integrated into the ecosystem than ever, with more data being generated and stored and connectivity becoming even more streamlined.
However, using the cloud for data has brought about a significant change in connectivity. Now, it is no longer sufficient for people and objects to be connected via the cloud. While this means that data can be stored for people to analyse, it does not allow people to explore, process, and communicate this data effectively. Processes must also be connected.
Connecting processes
This means that applications must be able to work in tandem with each other. Communication solutions are not standalone applications; they constantly work in conjunction with different pieces of the customer’s eco-system. This allows users to retrieve and send data and files and to verify their identity to ensure security.
Additionally, analytics available within the cloud enable organisations to leverage AI and enhance customers’ operational efficiency. AI, seen as a process within this ecosystem, supports faster and more accurate decision-making with 2 main outcomes: automation and augmentation of the various services.
The cloud is no longer a differentiator for solutions but a necessity.
The complexity of business objectives means that organisations will almost always rely on different applications to achieve their goals. Communication solutions are not implemented in a ‘standalone mode’; they are integrated with other applications (such as a CRM application like Salesforce, an accounting application, or a ticketing solution) as part of a transversal approach. Tailored solutions are also essential for specific verticals, providing industry-specific benefits and ensuring that unique industry requirements are effectively met.
There are multiple challenges created by the need for more secure and reliable connectivity between processes, which can negatively affect how an organisation is run or result in a loss of value.
Examples include:
Decreased operational efficiency
Transferring data, information, or communications from one system to another takes more time and resources. More friction between processes leads to employees wasting time trying to make two different systems mesh together or complete manual tasks like data entry.
Data silos
A lack of connectivity between processes means that key insights can slip through the gap. Essential data may not be visible across the organisation, meaning valuable insights are missed. Data silos reduce collaboration and transparency as well as inhibiting productivity.
Security
Cybersecurity can also suffer when there is significant friction between processes. When employees cannot quickly transfer information from one application to another, they are more likely to use third-party applications, which may lack reliable cybersecurity credentials, to store or transfer files.
These issues can be avoided by using processes that integrate seamlessly. This allows organisations to streamline workflows and gain access to a holistic overview of
data and insights. Not only does this make employees’ tasks less complex but it enhances organisations’ agility and flexibility and is therefore a critical factor in empowering them to reach their goals.
Decision-makers should prioritise process connectivity as a crucial feature when looking for a new solution for their business. The shift from CapEx to OpEx models further emphasises the need for flexible, scalable solutions. Subscription models provide the freedom to scale up or down based on needs, ensuring cost-effectiveness and operational agility.
The use of the cloud for data has made connectivity between processes indispensable. Communications solutions providers and designers of other applications must embrace connectivity to keep up with customers’ needs and wants and remain competitive.
