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Increase Your Productivity With These 3 Cloud-Based Tools

by | Apr 16, 2015 | Articles | 0 comments

3 Cloud-Based Tools

From cloud storage services to customer relationship management (CRM) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, the cloud has a lot to offer any business. But which products and services are best for graphic design firms? Here are some of the most useful cloud tools currently available to help you decide.

cloud-based tools

1. Storage

Cloud storage is the most widely used cloud tool. For personal use, small businesses, and even large corporations, cloud storage makes it easy to collaborate with others, backup important data such as images and documents, and access that data from any device.

For graphic design firms, ideal cloud storage will offer ample digital space. If your main concern is backup storage for your business’ projects, Mozy is a leader in traditional cloud backup storage. The company can give you complete control over your data’s backup schedule, and you can increase or decrease the bandwidth used when backing up your projects. While it is a great service that keeps your data secure and encrypted with military grade security, there is no way to share or link documents from the Mozy cloud.

For cloud storage that has more of an emphasis on collaboration, take a look at Box.

2. CRMs

Not all CRMs are cloud-based; however, many are, and it’s quickly becoming a growing trend. CRM software like Salesforce and Workflow Max provide you with tools to connect with customers, communicate with employees, track jobs and projects—including deadlines and timelines of ongoing jobs—and share documents with others for a streamlined collaborative workforce.

Workflow Max allows users to track what jobs employees or contractors have worked on, and for how long. Salesforce on the other hand, offers a list of services such as Analytics Cloud, and Marketing Cloud, which customize each customer’s journey through a project.

While CRMs are used for many kinds of businesses, they lend themselves well to graphic design firms because of their emphasis on collaboration. Best of all, these services can be accessed anywhere from any device.

3. ERPs

CRMs are all about the collaborative process between your company and the customers, and ERPs are the self-reflection equivalent. ERPs like NetSuite enable your business to compile, store, and interpret data in order to streamline your business practices. With Role-Based ERP, you can uniquely configure each user’s access in order for them to fulfill their role in the design process more effective and efficiently.

Some ERP and CRM software may have overlap, however, there are also companies that provide all-inclusive cloud software. Services like Workflow Max, Salesforce, NetSuite, and Role-Based ERP can be expensive, but they are all designed to increase the productivity of your business and save you money in the long run.

One of the most common mistakes businesses make when subscribing to a cloud tool service, is paying for options they don’t need. Because of this it’s a good idea to do your homework and find the one that can serve your company best. You can also sign up for a smaller package at first to test the services, and upgrade once you find the right fit.

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