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5 Misconceptions about Cloud-Based library software

Cloud based library solutions have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they offer libraries and librarians many benefits such as increased security, reliability, flexibility, and cost savings. Unfortunately, there are also several misconceptions about cloud based library solutions that can cause confusion. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at five of the most common misconceptions about cloud based library solutions and set the record straight. With the right information, you’ll be able to make an informed decision when considering cloud based solutions for your library.

Intergated Library management system, cloud based software

Misconception #1: The Cloud is Not Secure

Many librarians have misconceptions about the security of cloud based library solutions, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Cloud based library solutions are extremely secure, as the leading cloud platform providers invest heavily in security measures to protect their customers’ data. These measures may include a secure physical environment protected by security guards, patrol dogs, restricted entry, cooling systems, and fire prevention measures. If you compare this with servers on your premises, then the chances are you don’t have this kind of protection. It is the cloud platform provider’s job to manage the cloud servers and keep them patched against viruses with the latest security updates. They will also monitor 24/7 for unusual activity and intrusion attempts. Furthermore, the data itself is kept secure using encryption at rest and in transit. This means that even if the database was stolen or removed from its environment, it could not be read anywhere except the commissioned server.

Most library automation systems and library management systems come with built-in audit trails, which librarians can use to monitor user activity and detect any suspicious activity. In addition to detailed reports, these integrated library systems enable libraries to keep track of their resources and identify trends in library usage. Almost all library automation and library management systems offer daily backups, so libraries can be assured that any lost data can be recovered quickly and easily. By doing so, libraries can be assured that their valuable information is being protected. Furthermore, cloud based library solutions offer a range of tools such as role-based permissions, single sign-on, and controlled access to user data – which allow librarians to control access to both personal data and the library catalogue.

 

Misconception #2: The Cloud is Not Reliable

Understandably, some people may view the cloud with scepticism when it comes to reliability. After all, having your library’s data stored “in the cloud” can seem rather nebulous. However, the truth is that cloud-based solutions are more reliable than traditional on-premise systems. In fact, you’ll typically get over 99.5% uptime from cloud platform providers. Cloud providers often have multiple data centres, which are equipped with redundant systems that ensure high availability. 

Additionally, many cloud providers will also have mirrored servers in different locations to minimize any downtime caused by local internet problems. Furthermore, many cloud providers also have an electricity generator so even in the event of a power outage, the systems can remain up and running. Most importantly, these cloud-based solutions are regularly maintained and updated by the provider, reducing the chances of system failure or crash. With on-premise integrated library systems, these updates and maintenance need to be managed in-house by overstretched IT staff – potentially resulting in outdated servers that are more likely to fail or crash.

 

Misconception #3: The Cloud is Not Flexible

Many believe that cloud based library solutions are not flexible, but this could not be further from the truth. Modern library management systems provide libraries with configuration options and parameters so librarians can tailor their library services to the specific needs of their library users. Configuration options include adding your logo and colours, changing font sizes, setting loan policies, hiding or revealing menu items, changing field names, setting defaults, and more. This allows librarians to easily scale their services up or down to meet changing demands.

Providers of cloud-based library solutions can more readily accommodate requests for improvements and new features because they can apply updates in the cloud more frequently. Before the advent of cloud based library solutions, the integrated library system vendor had to send an upgrade package to each customer. The upgrade had to be applied by the customer’s IT staff or a hired consultant, which may not be done quickly or even correctly. In some cases an upgrade had to be justified and may not be applied at all, leaving the librarian with an out-of-date system. By using cloud-based solutions, librarians can rest assured that upgrades will be applied by expert staff as soon as they are available, out of hours and without downtime.

Misconception #4: The Cloud is More Expensive

It is not true that cloud based library solutions cost more than traditional integrated library systems. Cloud based library solutions are usually sold on a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) basis and vendors offer a range of pricing options that can fit different budgets. Monthly or annual subscription SaaS pricing is often more affordable than on-premise installation, which traditionally involves higher upfront costs and annual maintenance fees.

Cloud computing offers an array of benefits to library automation, including scalability and improved access to data. By taking advantage of these benefits, libraries can save money immediately by decommissioning local servers and no longer paying for the local server and application licences. They can also save on hidden costs like the cost of IT staff time to back up, manage and apply upgrades to the library management system. As upgrades are usually included in a SaaS subscription, libraries can access the latest version of the software without spending extra money on upgrades.
 
In conclusion, cloud-based solutions are not more expensive than traditional library systems. On the contrary, they offer cost-saving options at a predictable annual cost that allow libraries to manage their operations more efficiently.

 

Misconception #5: The Cloud is Not Sustainable

Many people may be under the impression that cloud based library solutions are not sustainable, but this is simply not true. When it comes to sustainability, the cloud has many advantages over installation on your servers. With hosted library management systems, libraries can save energy by no longer having to manage physical server rooms. This reduces both energy consumption and emissions, making cloud based library solutions a much more eco-friendly option than traditional in-house systems.
 
Another great way the cloud helps libraries be more sustainable is by allowing for remote access. Remote access means both library staff and service users can work from home or off-site locations, reducing their carbon footprint and reducing the need for physical travel. By switching to cloud based library solutions, libraries can also reduce the amount of paper they use since much of their work will be completed online and users can switch to digital resources.
 
To find out more about the overall sustainability of cloud based library solutions please read my other article: https://knowallmatrix-librarysoftware.co.uk/cloud-hosted-library-software/

Conclusion

In conclusion, cloud based library solutions provide many benefits over traditional library management systems. Hosted integrated library systems are more secure, reliable, and flexible than on-premise installations. Furthermore, by eliminating the need for running your own servers, cloud based library solutions can reduce costs and help libraries become more sustainable. With these advantages, it is clear that modernising library operations with cloud-based solutions is a wise decision.

 

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