The past few years have seen increased hype around artificial intelligence (AI) in the cloud as the tech continues to transform how businesses operate. Today, more and more companies are implementing AI to address various trouble points in their processes. AI and the cloud blend seamlessly, and experts now predict that the technology will continue to revolutionalize and enhance cloud-based solutions in the foreseeable future.

But what is artificial intelligence?

Artificial intelligence (AI) was first conceptualized in the 1950s, but its true implementation only came in the 1980s with the invention of the first computer. Essentially, AI is the ability of machines to take commands and perform tasks that could be considered human-like or intellectual. Over the years, this technology has been applied in many areas of human life to automate repetitive processes and perform tasks that are considered too dangerous for human involvement. During that time, it has branched out into several sub-levels with the most notable ones including deep learning and machine learning.

Application of AI in cloud-based software

Most software today uses cloud computing, which is the practice of leveraging on-demand computer system resources hosted on the web to store, manage, and process data. For these tools to operate correctly, therefore, they need to have access to the internet and be hosted using reliable hosting providers. Mango Matter recently reviewed a few excellent web hosts – be sure to check them out.

When AI is blended with cloud computing, the results include platforms and services such as Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), and Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS).

Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)

The SaaS industry is booming, and there is a good reason for this. More developers are getting creative and devising ways to package and sell their services in the form of software. This has led to the rise in the number of applications for different uses, including online shopping, bookings, and business management, to name just a few. Freshbooks and Quickbooks are two great examples of SaaS tools for businesses looking to streamline their accounting processes.

Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS)

IaaS platforms are mainly used by app developers to access development services like operating systems, virtual machines, storage facilities, and networks.

Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS)

PaaS platforms work similarly as their IaaS counterparts. Their primary purpose, however, is to provide a platform where mobile apps and web designers can access an inbuilt infrastructure comprised of databases, storage, networks, and servers. This helps to eliminate the need for developers to manage and update individual components, which enables them to focus on enhancing their cloud applications alone.

Should you implement AI in cloud computing?

The use of AI has impacted businesses in many positive ways, including helping them to save money, time, and improve results. In this section, we take a look at four ways AI can help your cloud-based software business grow and fulfill its full potential.

Cut costs

When running a tech-related business today, one of the most significant expenses you’re likely to incur is the cost of on-site hardware for your data storage. Other costs involved in managing the business may include electricity and expert consultation fees, to name just a few. The good thing is, you can significantly reduce these expenses by employing a blend of AI and cloud computing.

For starters, you can easily replace on-site data storage equipment with the usually inexpensive and readily available cloud storage. Doing this will also enable you to eliminate costs associated with managing storage tools such as repairs.

Access data quickly

Another key benefit you’re likely to enjoy once you decide to incorporate AI in your cloud tools is the seamless and unlimited access privileges to your data. As you possibly know, AI relies heavily on data to improve its decision-making and boost performance. On the other hand, cloud storage can hold massive volumes of data that are usually available on demand. By implementing AI in a cloud environment, you can access data collected from your business more quickly for timely and smarter decision making.

Improved security

Combining AI and cloud software tools also come with numerous security advantages. For example, there are AI innovations that could help to process the information on cloud software and detect any inconsistencies immediately. Using the technology, therefore, can significantly reduce cases of security breaches and unauthorized access to sensitive data stored in the cloud.

In the same measure, depending on how much control you’ve given AI in your setup, the tech can detect and automatically block any unusual happenings, like in the event of potential malware injection.

Are you implementing AI in your cloud-based software system to improve performance in your business? We’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below.