It seems that every business owner and information technology specialist has their head in the clouds these days, doesn’t it? Well, perhaps not. But if you listen to conversations about where they do most of their computing and file storage, it might sound that way.

This is because, in recent years, there has been a meteoric rise in the use of so-called “cloud” software. This term may sound rather dreamy and intangible, but in reality, it’s simple, practical science. When it comes to cloud-based call center software, it can also be good business sense.

What Does Cloud-Based Mean?

When information is cloud-based, this means it is being stored, processed, or otherwise handled via a network of remote servers that operate via the internet. This is in contrast to traditional servers, which occupy a single location or multiple locations on a company’s property.

When you hear someone ubiquitously refer to “the cloud” as something that is seemingly everywhere and always available, they’re not incorrect, since the term “cloud” here essentially refers to the internet as a whole. This flexibility and constant availability are some of the many reasons for the popularity of cloud-based computing.

While cloud-based software is quickly becoming the standard for many industries, it is still shrouded in undue mystery for many business owners and operators. Here, we will discuss the differences in on-premise and cloud-based software - as well as some of the many reasons why cloud-based call center software might be the right choice for your facility.

Weighing On Premise Computing Against Cloud-Based Computing in the Call Center

Judging cloud-based software functionality against a combination of on premise hardware and software isn’t always a fair competition. Oftentimes, business owners or operators aren’t sure what they are looking for. They see only what is in front of them - whether it is a perceived cost savings or an apparent change in performance - or believe what they are told about promises of greater security.

The greatest difference between the two types of technology will always be deployment. How are they set up and used in your setting? Are they practical and applicable? Does your facility actually need to convert to the cloud, or is it more advisable to remain hard-wired as you have always been? These are questions that should be answered before proceeding, simply because your competitors are jumping into the cloud.

When it comes to the contact center, which type of computing is superior? That also depends on what you need. Some comparisons to draw that will help you determine which type of software to choose include:

• The ease of implementation and how quickly a system can be deployed and put to work is critical for many businesses. This is especially true when it comes to cloud-based call center software, which often needs to be up and running within hours, if not minutes from launch. Cloud-based options are famously easy to roll out, simple to implement and fully supported by a third-party staff. You won’t find that level of support with an on-premise solution, unless it comes built into your company already.
  
  
• The price tag of any solution is a factor for most businesses - especially if your business is smaller than average. On-premise software solutions have a higher price tag upfront, making them intimidating or even impossible for some business owners. Cloud-based solutions do cost more over time, but they also offer affordable, predictable payments that allow business owners to get started right away.
  
  
• There is something to be said about the level of stress that comes with a do-it-yourself mentality. When you hold the physical key to your company’s software control, you also hold the key to more responsibility and more stress than you would have if you were able to hand that responsibility over to a vendor or other third party the way you would if you were partnering with a cloud-based service provider. While this may not be a consideration for all business owners, those with a lot on their plate in other areas of life might want to consider the less stressful option.
  
  
• For some companies, the ability to fully customize their software and the experience they provide their customers is a top priority. If this is the case for you, you may not like cloud-based software. However, today’s cloud-based options offer much more customization features than ever before - plus a smooth rollout and increase performance that might make you think twice about the importance of that fully-customized interface.
  
  
• None of the above features will amount to much if your software solution isn’t functional. The level of functionality in your software solution depends primarily on where you source it from, so be sure to partner with reputable companies in either scenario.

Once you understand how each of these factors plays into your overall plan for your business - and how they impact your relationship with your technology - you can make an informed decision about which type of software is best for you. Luckily, ChaseData has you covered, either way!

ChaseData - Your Source for On-Premise and Cloud-Based Call Center Software

With ever-increasing popularity comes ever-increasing availability. Cloud-based call center software is now more readily accessible than it has ever been. As a business owner, you have your choice of who to partner with to make your cloud-based computing happen.

At ChaseData, we believe we offer some of the best solutions in the industry, both for on-premise and cloud-based call center software. Whether you’re looking to choose a single route exclusively or create a hybrid of the two for your facility, we can help you create the perfect, custom solution for your center’s needs.

For more information about your tailor-made software solution, contact ChaseData today!