Cloud Computing For Non-For-Profit Organization

Mark Smith, 01 May 2011

In my previous posts, I have discussed about how Microsoft Dynamics CRM can help Non-For-Profit Organizations. As I have mentioned, one of the key things NFP's look for is a cost-effective but efficient solution. One of the answers is Cloud Computing. Why? It levels the technology playing field for nonprofits. It doesn't matter whether you have a sizeable budget or a shoestring budget: With cloud computing, sophisticated technology solutions are more accessible because all you need is access to the Internet.

What is Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing is a style of computing in which dynamically scalable and often virtualized resources are provided as a service over the Internet or otherwise known as Software as a Service (SAAS). It means that tools or applications such as Microsoft Dynamics CRM used to run your NFP Organization are delivered through the Internet. You can do anything and everything in cloud-- from email, websites, databases, and project management to snail mail, online storage of documents, voicemail, and more. 

What the difference with this implementation?

• No infrastructure. If you have access to the Internet, you have access to the cloud.

• It's open. Internet standards and web services allow you to connect services to each other.

• Quick start: Try before you buy, and get up and running in very little time.  

What are the benefits of using Cloud Computing?

• Cost-Effective: Little to no upfront costs. Users can avoid capital expenditure on hardware, software, and services when they pay a provider only for what they use. Consumption is usually billed on a utility or subscription basis.

• Less Technical/IT staff required: Many applications available in the cloud require much less in-house IT support because the hosting provider takes care of installs, upgrades, backups and standard maintenance for you.

• No servers need to be researched, purchased, maintained, or recycled.

• Rapid deployment: Accounts can be set up in minutes. However more complicated pieces of software such as Microsoft Dynamics CRM, AX, GP or NAV still require more set up and probably training of your staff.

• Convenience: Staff and volunteers can access your applications from almost any Internet connection with their login information. No more setting up VPNs or systems to allow remote access to your servers. 

Most important of all, Cloud Computing is Earth Friendly. Fewer servers are built and running, meaning fewer toxic materials and water need to be used, fewer toxic materials are dumped, and less energy is consumed in the running of the servers. Also client computers do not need to be as powerful since all the processing is performed on the hosted server(s). This means that you can keep your older computers longer and reduces demand for new computers.

So what are you waiting for? Go Cloud now and reap all of these benefits. Contact us now for more questions about Cloud Computing implementations with Microsoft Dynamics CRM.