Cloud solutions are everywhere. Most people already use a variety of cloud computing services without even realizing it. Gmail, Google Drive, and Facebook, for example, are all cloud-based applications. While they’re beneficial for personal use, they’re even more valuable for associations like yours that need to be able to access large amounts of member data over a secure network connection. And since cloud computing is the wave of the future, it’s difficult to even find viable software solutions that still offer an on-premise version. If you’re ready to reap the many advantages of an Association Management System (AMS) or Learning Management Systems (LMS), you may still be on the fence about whether to choose an on-premise system or one in the cloud.
In this article, we’ve highlighted five key benefits your membership organization stands to gain by moving to a cloud-based AMS or LMS.
1. Unparalleled accessibility and convenience
On-premise systems are hosted locally. They not only require the purchase of the software, but also proper planning of the infrastructure for installation, often comprised of several servers and PCs or laptops, all with pre-requisite software to run as well. On the other hand, cloud-based AMSs and LMSs are located on cloud servers such as Microsoft Azure or Amazon AWS and the vendor is responsible for the hosting and infrastructure. These platforms are ideal for today’s on-the-go professionals who need anytime, anywhere access to their member portals, online training content, and the like. As the administrator, it makes your life easier too. You can simply log in to the system from any device to communicate with members, manage events, create new online training materials, modify existing resources, and a host of other valuable activities.
2. Ease of installation
Most cloud-based solutions require no installation and can be used by simply logging into the platform. On-premise AMSs and LMSs take time and effort to install and upgrade. More complex systems often require assistance from the vendor (for a fee) or from an IT expert.
3. Cost savings
Once you’ve made the transition to the cloud, simplified access to your organization’s data will save both time and money. Because it is a subscription price and you no longer need to pay an IT expert or vendor for upgrades, you can better predict your cost of ongoing usage and maintenance. Combined, these factors result in reduced costs, improved efficiencies, and greater returns.
4. Impressive flexibility
It’s important to evaluate your current needs as well as your plans for the future. Do you need a tool that grows with your organization? Are you planning to expand your team, increase your membership efforts, or boost your online learning options? You may own locally-installed AMSs and LMSs outright, but this can place a burden on your bandwidth and storage space. More members, learners, and employees equates to more traffic on your server, and possibly even an infrastructure overhaul. A cloud-based AMS or LMS is operated by the vendor. That means they’re responsible for resolving bandwidth issues and IT troubleshooting. Plus, it’s easy to add more users to your plan as your organization grows.
5. Superior data protection
The cloud provides membership organizations of all types and sizes with enhanced yet simplified data security. Rather than investing in an on-premises data warehouse that also requires the implementation and maintenance of security protocols, cloud service providers emphasize cutting-edge security protocols and data protection measures. Most providers also distribute their backups between data centers around the world to maintain reliable access at all times. This distribution of data also allows them to provide a highly effective data recovery service in case of emergency. That means a protected copy of your official working data can be accessed at all times in order to restore systems if a crash, outage, natural disaster, or serious error should ever occur.
The right LMS or AMS solutions should meet your objectives and budget.
A cloud-hosted system might be more attractive to your association if you want to transfer the cost and hassle of running hardware and software to the vendor, taking the burden off of your organization – especially your IT department. And, while cloud-based AMSs and LMSs don’t always offer the same level of deep customizability as some on-premises solutions, they typically offer a great deal of configurability to meet your association’s specific requirements.
Are you ready to learn more about what a cloud-based AMS or LMS can do for your membership organization? We’re here to help! Our team of tech experts will answer your questions and guide you through every step of the process. Please contact IBC’s friendly professionals to get started.
About IBC: At IBC, we have a deep understanding of the critical business needs and processes specific to associations, non-profits, and unions. We ‘get’ your culture, your goals, and what drives you, too. Focused exclusively on and dedicated to delivering the most effective AMS, LMS, and Virtual Event Solutions for our clients, we’re well-versed in identifying and applying the integration techniques that will save you time and money. Since 2001, our cutting-edge products, unparalleled responsiveness, and award-winning services have helped organizations like yours increase their operational and financial performance by leveraging best practices and proven solutions. For more information about IBC, please visit the website at www.ibconcepts.com or call 443.603.0215.
