Cloud computing is 'easy to understand and functional'

The proliferation of cloud computing is understandable due to its ease of use, according to an expert in the field.

Dean Miles, the general manager of Gooroo Software, explained to Fresh Business Thinking that the programs provided by cloud computing - such as software asset management (SAM) and customer relationship management (SAM) - are accessible via "familiar web-based services" similar to Hotmail or Amazon.

Anything is available to consumers in cloud computing, from basic office software such as word processing and spreadsheets to "sophisticated accounting and financial" programs and other specialised options relating to stock management and e-commerce, he added.

Minimal upfront costs also make it a wise investment for many, Mr Miles emphasised, noting they are paid for simply, in a manner similar to electricity or water, with other bills reduced to the lack of on-site hardware.

Recently, Patrick Barnard, the senior web editor of TMCnet, explained there are too many benefits associated with software-as-a-service to completely disregard it, encouraging people to do research into the asset.