TRG Blog

Cloud Operating Platform – What Is It and Does Your Company Need One?

Written by Rick Yvanovich | Thu, Jan 4, 2024

Cloud computing has revolutionised the way businesses operate, and at the heart of this transformation is the cloud operating platform. Often referred to as a virtual operating system, a cloud operating platform provides a sophisticated approach to navigating the complexities of cloud-based computing.

This article explores the purposes, benefits, and challenges of adopting a cloud operating platform, as well as highlights a prominent example in the industry.

But first, let's delve into what it is and the purposes of a cloud operating platform.

Contents

What is a Cloud Operating Platform?

A cloud operating platform is a type of operating system designed to operate within cloud computing and virtualisation environments. Its primary function centres on managing the operation, execution, and intricate processes of virtual machines, servers, and infrastructure, and overseeing the interplay of back-end hardware and software resources.

Often interchangeably referred to as a virtual operating system, a cloud operating platform is a sophisticated approach to navigating the complex processes of cloud-based computing.

Examples of current cloud operating systems include:

Read more: Automating Financial Forecast for Hotels with Cloud Systems

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Purposes of A Cloud Operating Platform

A cloud operating platform mainly administers the operations of one or more virtual machines in a virtualised setup. As a result, the roles, capabilities, and purposes of a cloud operating system vary depending on the specific virtual environment and cloud services in place.

Typically, the cloud operating platform is set up to:

  • Access to Web-Based Applications: Cloud operating platforms provide users with access to a diverse range of web-based applications. They also allow users to seamlessly access their personal desktops while on the go.
  • Optimise Performance: Users of cloud computing can attain optimal performance from any corner of the world through cloud operating platforms.
  • Create Dynamic Content and Design: Supporting dynamic content and design, cloud operating platforms ensure a responsive user experience.
  • Edit Rich Text: Users can undertake rich text editing within cloud operating platforms.
  • Offer A Diverse Application Catalogue: Cloud operating platforms offer a broad range of applications to improve user functionality.
  • Work Across Devices: Cloud operating platforms are specifically tailored for notebooks, mobile internet devices, and personal computers (PCs) used for internet browsing.
  • Simplify Daily Tasks: Cloud operating platforms enable users to effortlessly complete daily tasks.

Read more: Proper Data Preparation: Key Ingredient Ensuring a Smooth Cloud Migration

In addition to its elaborate management of processes and threads within virtualised environments, a custom-built cloud operating system for a computing-centric environment demonstrates its adaptability by efficiently handling the intricacies of singular or clustered virtual machines and servers. Likewise, a streamlined cloud operating platform, designed with a light-end footprint, presents end-users with a user-friendly experience.

This necessitates the provision of pre-installed applications and services easily accessible through an Internet browser. This adaptability not only caters to the needs of computing-centric environments but also guarantees a seamless experience in virtual interactions.

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Benefits of A Cloud Operating Platform

Adopting a cloud operating platform brings forth a profusion of benefits that redefine the user experience and transform organisational management.

1. Easy Upgrades

Contrary to their traditional counterparts, cloud operating platforms eliminate the need for reinstalling programmes, drivers, and firmware with each version upgrade. They seamlessly integrate new versions, sparing users the laborious task of starting with every update from scratch. Reinstalling or upgrading a traditional operating system, on the other hand, is essentially akin to starting over.

Read more: 7 Things to Know About the Newly Launched Infor SunSystems Cloud

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2. Reduced Risks of Viruses

To steer clear of the perils of viruses is a compelling reason to transition to a cloud operating platform. Safeguarded from direct interactions with your computer’s hardware, these systems preclude viruses from infiltrating your hard drive or motherboard.

Not to mention, a reliable cloud operating platform facilitates time and money savings, as well as stress relief for users who constantly struggle against reformatting drives and the prodigality of expensive antivirus software.

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3. Cost-Effectiveness

A cloud operating platform offers a cost-effective solution, averting the financial shackles associated with traditional alternatives. In contrast to the expensiveness of Windows and OSX versions, a cloud-based OS provides a well-designed, user-friendly experience without draining your wallet.

An organisation can expedite significant cost savings by opting for a cloud operating platform, streamlining its operating processes.

Read more: 3 Cost-Cutting Mistakes to Avoid During a Recession

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4. Faster Disaster Recovery

Cloud operating platforms are built on robust and redundant infrastructure. They utilise multiple data centres and servers located in different geographic regions. This redundancy ensures that if one data centre or server fails, the workload can be seamlessly shifted to another location, minimising downtime and enabling faster recovery.

Not only that, but these cloud platforms often incorporate automated backup and replication mechanisms. This means that data is regularly backed up and replicated to multiple locations within the cloud infrastructure. In the event of a disaster, these backups can be quickly restored, minimising data loss and reducing recovery time.

Cloud operating platforms rely on high-speed and robust network connectivity; all are typically managed by experienced service providers who specialise in disaster recovery. This ensures that data can be transferred quickly between different components of the cloud infrastructure, enabling faster retrieval and recovery of data in the event of a disaster.

Read more: How to Implement A Disaster Recovery Plan to Protect Your Financial Data?

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5. User-Friendly and Simplicity

Easing any fears of acquiring a new, cloud-based operating platform offers a user-friendly capability that meets the needs of both novices and technophiles. These operating systems have straightforward and familiar interfaces and features, similar to popular applications. They are designed to enhance existing technology rather than introduce something entirely new.

The transition to a cloud operating platform becomes a seamless and lucrative experience, breaking down barriers for users reluctant to explore this innovative approach.

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6. Business Continuity

Ascertaining interrupted business operations, a cloud operating platform contributes to viable business strategies. With data stored and accessible from varied locations, these systems alleviate the impact of unexpected events, boosting robustness and minimising downtime in the face of disruptions.

This portrays the value of a cloud operating platform in maintaining businesses’ seamless workflows and further continuity.

Read more: Infor OS  –  The Foundation of Future Enterprises

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Challenges of A Cloud Operating Platform

Alongside its patent advantages, a cloud operating platform may also present a set of challenges that call for users’ notice.

1. Dependency on Internet Connectivity and Server Availability

The extent to which a cloud operating platform is flawless depends greatly on a stable internet connection and an uninterrupted server. Lacking either of them, users may face difficulties in accessing their operating system or applications, resulting in potential delays or errors.

Read more: Back to Basics - Internet of Things (IoT) Explained

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2. Restricted Control and Privacy Concerns

The challenge arises from the fact that user data and settings are stored on the server, making them subject to varying policies and regulations. This gives rise to concerns about the security and privacy of the stored information.

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3. Limitations in Customisation and Flexibility

Users may experience limitations in the customisation and flexibility of their operating platform and applications since the service provider dictates features and functionalities, limiting users’ ability to tailor the system to fulfil their specific needs and preferences.

Read more: 3 vital functionalities to any financial management software

However, as technology continues to advance, innovative and comprehensive solutions are constantly being developed and embraced day by day.

Cloud operating platforms transcend their traditional counterparts in efficiently managing multiple virtual machines, advancing workflows with streamlined processes, and providing various advantages. Integrated within the cloud operating platform is a business solution, enabling a data-centric approach and delivering result-oriented solutions. In the face of challenges, these systems are still crucial for effective cloud computing.

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Available Solutions for Businesses

Infor, headquartered in New York, is an enterprise software behemoth, widely recognised for its innovative, cutting-edge and industry-specific solutions. Following its merger with Koch Industries, Infor has invested substantial resources into bolstering customer success. Many of their achievements underline customers’ successful transitions to cloud-based solutions, namely the Infor CloudSuites and Infor SunSystems Cloud.

Infor OS, or "Infor Operating Service," is a groundbreaking cloud platform that advances Infor CloudSuites. It is regarded as the keystone of digital transformation, placing users at the centre of every interaction. It serves as the basis for automation, anticipation, collaboration, and informed decision-making.

Key features of Infor OS include:

  • Easier integrations
  • Secure single sign-on
  • Enhanced user management
  • Less maintenance

Infor OS enables organisations to swiftly adapt to changes and expand the platform in tandem with business growth. By streamlining IT infrastructure, it fosters collaboration and productivity; thus, organisations can reduce costs and gain a competitive edge.

Infor OS offers flexible deployment options: in the (private) cloud or on-premise. Therefore, this ensures secure and reliable access from any location, be it the office, home, or on the road.

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For a deeper dive into the capabilities of this cutting-edge cloud operating platform, seize the opportunity to download the Infor OS brochure today!