Benefits of HR and Payroll "Over the Cloud" Outweigh Perceived Threat

JOHANNESBURG, April 5, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- In recent research findings on Cloud Computing and its benefits to the HR function by IQPC South Africa, the obstacles for companies to taking up virtual services seem to be as intangible as the notion of cloud computing itself. While the HR community has welcomed virtual networking in aid of business goals, in contrast, skeptical attitudes towards virtual services within their companies could be holding them back.

"Despite the fact that cloud computing is used on a daily basis in our personal lives, companies remain reticent to entrust their core functions, such as HR and payroll, to companies offering Software as a Service (SaaS) functionality" points out Dave Philp, COO of CRS Technologies. According to Philp, security is listed as the number one concern when it comes to SaaS, although providers of virtual services have some of the most stringent and complex service level agreements. "From the moment your data leaves your desktop, it is securely encrypted, delivered over managed networks and stored in remote server farms with some of the most advanced security protocols in the world. From a logical point of view, it would seem the benefits of cloud services far outweigh the perceived drawbacks and companies should put HR and payroll software delivered over the cloud firmly on their radar."

Philp's top benefits for using hosted services delivered over the cloud:

1. Cloud computing is cost effective. Your IT provider will host services for multiple companies, sharing complex infrastructure allows you to pay only for what you actually use.

2. Cloud computing is quick and easy to implement and upscale. Skip the hardware procurement and capital expenditure phase.

3. Cloud computing allows you to be completely up-to-date. Updating software and adding new features on the fly is important. SARS and the Department of Labour changes can be incorporated immediately.

4. Cloud computing is infinitely scalable. If your business is growing fast or has seasonal spikes, you can go large quickly because cloud systems are built to cope with sharp increases in workload.

5. Cloud computing enables a truly mobile workforce. Your staff will have access to most of your systems on the go. Perfect for companies looking to expand into other regions.

For information about CRS at HR Technology Africa, 11-14 April 2011, Sandton Sun, Johannesburg, South Africa please visit http://www.hrtechnologyafrica.com or contact: Katia Andrejev, Marketing Manager katia.andrejev@iqpc.com or call; +9714-446-2748