Why We’re in the Cloud

The debate over Cloud Computing versus a traditional server-model is a hot topic in the tech community and with organizations who are looking for cost-effective, scalable and easy-to-manage alternatives.

As a non-profit operating in several timezones, we quickly recognized the need to have accessible, collaborative documents available to our staff and volunteers regardless of their location.  In order to be agile, expand the Timeraiser program, and further develop Civic Footprint, we need the ability to share and edit documents from anywhere.

Like many non-profit organizations, we operate within a limit budget, a changing human resource model (e.g. roles and responsibilities of staff, volunteers/board members) and shifting technologies.  It can be extremely challenging to invest in new technologies, software languages and social media tools without full-time support and maintenance of these technologies.

The diagram above gives you an overview of our technology backbone, powered by cloud computing options. Our two core programs, Civic Footprint and Timeraiser are built and maintained primarily using Cloud Computing software.  With Google Applications and Salesforce.com, we can keep up-to-date records of our contacts, plan and execute projects, and collaborate on documents and do some cool things with website development. We connect the work built in Google Applications with our external Social Media tools; primarily Facebook, Twitter and our blog.  We also produce unique information and e-learning videos that are posted to YouTube and promoted through Twitter.

Although the ratio of Software as a Service to Desktop Software applications is 33:4, we do utilize and appreciate Desktop Software applications on occasion.  For those new to the topic, this video from the Web 2.0 Expo provides a great definition of Cloud Computing.

In our view, Cloud Computing presents a unique opportunity to use the newest web-based and open source technologies at a low cost. We don’t pay for expensive server maintenance or staff costs for network system support – nor do we pay for expensive data storage and license fees.  Because we access all our work via the internet, we can work from any location, allowing the flexibility to work with anyone (volunteers, funders, the media), from any environment (our office, home, the beach).

We have described the advantages and disadvantages in detail in our Cloud Computing Strategy.  I encourage you to review it and let us know what you think.  The bottom line is that Cloud Computing facilitates innovative sharing and collaboration of documents with our stakeholders and volunteers, a fantastic cost-saving opportunity, and an agile environment that permits us to grow at our desired pace. We also don’t get stuck with pesky desktop upgrades and software installs.

There are risks with moving your organization in the Cloud; but there are also magnificent benefits that far outweigh the perceived dangers of data loss, security or compatibility issues.  We see the future in Cloud Computing, and would love to debate the topic further – leave us a comment and let us know your thoughts.

See you in the clouds.