Cloud computing 'has many benefits'

Businesses that use VoIP solutions may want to consider adopting cloud computing, as the technology has a number of benefits for commercial organisations, according to one industry figure.

Stuart Hibbert, chief executive of icomplete.com, said that the cloud will allow employers to provide flexible working patterns for staff who operate from their own homes or are based in another country.

In addition, the technology can enhance productivity, while another advantage is that there are no start-up costs involved for businesses themselves.

"The biggest benefits are that you don't have to set up a system for yourself. So you don't need to actually have your own servers, you don't have to back things up, it's going to be available to you 24 hours a day, seven days a week - you pay a small price for some great functionality," Mr Hibbert said.

Andy Horn, general manager at Easynet Connect, said recently that small businesses should trial cloud computing and see if it fits in with their operations before committing to it.