An industry expert has been comparing the efficiencies of desktop and cloud-based apps, in an attempt to establish the best fit for SME businesses. Once again, the conclusion appears to be 'horses for courses'.

Writing for IT News, Brian Proffitt compared several different types of apps - both cloud and desktop-based - which might interest SMEs wondering whether or not they should make an investment in cloud computing.

Don't dismiss desktop apps

He claimed that just because cloud apps are "cool and new", this isn't reason enough for SMEs to justify investing in the cloud; and that people should stop being so "dismissive" of traditional desktop applications.
 

Financial management apps were also analysed by Proffitt. Those that are cloud-based can offer great "convenience", he said, but desktop equivalents could be better for small businesses as they are more able to handle "complicated finances."

Cloud great for web design

In the area of web design and site creation, Proffitt had to admit the cloud came out on top. Using Dreamweaver as his desktop example and WordPress as his cloud-based example, the expert compared the big financial investment required for desktop apps to the "flexibility" of cloud equivalents.

Proffitt added: "In the good old days, it was all about HTML. Now it's all Web 2.0 and you had better go big or go home," perhaps highlighting the importance of choosing the best app possible for SME website design.

This debate is set to roll on for some time yet. If you're in need of more information, we would be happy to discuss the choices available to your business.