Cloud computing has changed how organizations operate, allowing businesses to access computing resources on-demand without maintaining physical infrastructure. This approach delivers services through internet connections, offering storage, processing power and applications as needed. As Forbes notes, this paradigm has “reshaped global business operations” for both established enterprises and startups that were “born in the cloud.”
Learn more about these operations with Emporia State University’s online MBA with Information Systems Concentration. Cloud computing provides scalable resources through three service models:
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) delivers fundamental computing infrastructure including virtual servers, networks and storage.
- Platform as a Service (PaaS) offers development environments for creating applications without managing hardware.
- Software as a Service (SaaS) provides ready-to-use applications accessed through web browsers, eliminating installation and maintenance requirements.
Organizations can deploy these services through public clouds (shared resources managed by providers like AWS, Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud), private clouds (dedicated resources for a single organization) or hybrid models combining both approaches. The benefits of a multi-cloud strategy, which involves using services from more than one provider, include avoiding vendor lock-in and enhanced performance.
Business Benefits of Cloud Computing
The switch to cloud-based systems has significant benefits. By paying only for the resources they use, companies effectively turn capital expenditures into operational expenses, adopting a “pay-as-you-go” approach. This eliminates upfront hardware investments and maintenance costs while supporting rapid scaling during peak demand periods without purchasing excess capacity that isn’t used during normal operations.
Cloud solutions also enhance operational efficiency. Teams can collaborate across locations using synchronized data and applications, improving productivity. Automatic updates reduce IT maintenance overload, while built-in security measures offer a higher level of protection than organizations with limited resources and expertise could achieve on their own. Cloud services also provide geographic flexibility. Employees can access systems from any internet-connected location, supporting remote work arrangements.
Enabling Business Innovation Through Cloud Technologies
Cloud computing serves as a foundation for many technological innovations. Artificial intelligence applications benefit from cloud infrastructure that handles intensive computational requirements without needing expensive on-premises hardware. Companies can use machine learning solutions that analyze vast datasets, detect patterns and generate recommendations for business improvements.
The Internet of Things (IoT) relies on cloud platforms to collect, store and process data from connected devices throughout manufacturing facilities, supply chains and consumer products. This enables monitoring and analysis capabilities previously impossible, supporting preventive maintenance programs and usage-based business models.
Big data analytics become more accessible through cloud computing, allowing organizations to find value from structured and unstructured data. These capabilities support evidence-based decision-making across marketing, operations, product development and customer service, reducing guesswork.
MBA in Information Systems: Preparing for Cloud-centered Business
Emporia State University’s online MBA with Information Systems Concentration prepares students for the technology-driven business field. While not offering dedicated cloud computing courses, the program addresses important concepts through its curriculum that relate directly to managing cloud technologies. The Information Systems for Managerial Decisions course studies how businesses currently manage information technology. The class covers complex technological systems that support computing at multiple scales—from personal use to departmental collaboration, company-wide implementation, cross-business partnerships and global applications.
Additional coursework covers information systems, system analysis and marketing strategy — all applicable to cloud environments where data management and protection are important. This helps graduates understand technical considerations while focusing on business applications and strategic implications rather than purely technical details. MBA students with information systems expertise are valuable in organizations with cloud technologies. They bridge communication gaps between technical specialists and business managers and their training in financial analysis helps them assess the true costs and benefits of cloud solutions.
As cloud computing continues reshaping business practices, professionals who understand both management principles and information systems will help organizations succeed. Their ability to connect business goals with technology allows them to lead digital transformation strategies and discover opportunities for innovation.
Learn more about Emporia State University’s online MBA with Information Systems Concentration.
