While project management tools are crucial for organizations that want to accomplish work efficiently, there is still some resistance to the idea of cloud-based project management. You will still find companies that insist on managing projects via email and spreadsheets (something we highly discourage), or via sticky notes and whiteboards.
There are many reasons for the all-too-common resistance to cloud-based project management software. But we think each objection has a real solution on the other side. Let's take a look:
Cloud-Based Project Management Objections
1. "Cloud-based project management is not secure."
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) companies understand that they cannot attract enterprise customers without providing world-class data security. Safeguarding all the potentially critical data that will go into project management systems will always will be a priority for providers of cloud solutions. You may wonder what is professional services in SaaS, and it is typically defined as short to mid-term events that focus on achieving specific outcomes. Security is crucial if your organization is invested in professional services for SaaS, as many small projects have the potential for many compromises, without the correct tools and software.
Cloud-based tools are actually more secure than having software installed in hundreds of computers. State-of-the-art security teams for on-premise software is cost-prohibitive for many businesses, but cloud apps with thousands of customers can afford to hire full-time security experts to protect their servers. As part of your due diligence, have your cloud service provider walk you through their security processes and setups. Ask them to prove that your company's data will be safeguarded from threats and risk. Software is only as secure as the environment in which it is hosted.
2. "Cloud-based project management software means loss of control over our own data."
One objection may be due to an apparent "loss of control" over where your data goes. We have heard the concern voiced a few times: "If we use a cloud-based software, we no longer have full control over our own information — we might lose all of it!" What this boils down to is a lack of trust holding back cloud software adoption.
The key here is to enter into a relationship with a cloud provider that has a stellar record regarding client data. Ask them to lay out their contingency plan should an emergency occur.
3. "Cloud-based project management software is expensive and difficult to maintain."
Hailing from the old days when on-site software had to be deployed, updated, and painstakingly maintained by IT staff, this objection is actually untrue.
Cloud-based tools are maintained by the providers themselves. Because the software is centrally controlled on the provider's servers, users don't have to install anything on their computers or devices. They simply access the software via their internet browser. All updates are automatically taken care of in the background by the company providing your project management tool.
The fact that the software is centralized means that you eliminate maintenance costs for your company. In fact, these days it's now actually more cost-effective to opt for a cloud-based solution rather than an on-premise installation that requires updates and sometimes a paid team to walk you through those updates. Surprised? Compare prices and do the math. Just make sure to watch out for hidden costs.
Convince Your Boss You Need Better Project Management Tools
Check out this blog post for tips on how to convince your boss you need better cloud-based collaboration tools.
Sources: Youtube, Techopedia, National Center for Education Statistics, Cloud Industry Forum, InformationWeek
