Enhancing Efficiency Across Industries

In today’s digital age, businesses are increasingly leveraging remote desktop and cloud solutions to host a wide range of applications. These technologies offer unparalleled flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency, transforming the way organizations operate across various industries. This document explores the types of applications that can be hosted via remote desktop and in the cloud, along with industry examples, software solutions, and workflows that demonstrate their practical applications.

What Types of Applications can be Hosted ?

Productivity and Office Applications

Although applications like Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace, and Zoho Office Suite are commonly hosted in the cloud. These platforms enable seamless collaboration, allowing users to access documents, spreadsheets, and presentations from any location. Many industry and organisations, still rely on desktop vrsion of these productivity tools for one reason or another. By providing a complete Remote Desktop solution, including in house, productivity suites such as office we ensure that employees can use familiar desktop applications linked with legacy industry or company software.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) programs are essential tools that help businesses manage their interactions with current and potential customers. These programs enable companies to organize, automate, and synchronize sales, marketing, customer service, and technical support, thereby improving customer satisfaction and retention. CRMs collect data from various customer touchpoints, providing a 360-degree view of customer activity, preferences, and feedback.

Many of the CRM systems such as Salesforce, HubSpot, and Microsoft Dynamics 365 can now be accessed directly with the cloud, but this does not suite all business applications, either due to privacy regulations, security or integration with other legacy software. Moving your CRM system in tandem with their software’s to a private or public cloud you can comply with these regulations yet still have the advantage of providing sales and marketing teams with real-time access to customer data and analytics. Remote access to CRM applications enables field agents to update records and manage customer interactions on the go.

Popular CRM Solutions that can be Hosted by PIP

• Microsoft Dynamics 365: Known for its robust features and integration with other Microsoft products, Dynamics 365 offers comprehensive tools for sales, customer service, and marketing. It supports customization to meet specific business needs.
• Salesforce Sales Cloud: Although primarily cloud-based, Salesforce also offers an on-premises version for businesses that require it. It provides extensive sales automation, customer service, and marketing functionalities.
• SAP CRM: Part of the SAP Business Suite, SAP CRM offers extensive features for managing customer relationships, including sales, marketing, and service modules. Its strong integration with other SAP products makes it a preferred choice for large enterprises.
• Oracle Siebel CRM: Known for its scalability and flexibility, Siebel CRM provides a wide range of features for sales, marketing, service, and analytics. Its strength lies in its ability to handle complex customer data and processes.
• SugarCRM: A highly customizable CRM solution, SugarCRM provides tools for sales automation, marketing campaigns, and customer support. Its open-source nature allows businesses to tailor the system to their specific requirements.

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is a type of software that organizations use to manage and integrate the important parts of their businesses. An ERP software system can integrate planning, purchasing inventory, sales, marketing, finance, human resources, and more. It provides a centralized framework for data from different business processes, ensuring that information flows seamlessly across the organization, leading to informed decision-making and streamlined operations.

ERP systems often integrate with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) programs to streamline customer data and interactions. This integration allows businesses to have a unified view of customer information. For example, an ERP system might pull data from the CRM to ensure that the inventory and sales processes are aligned with customer demand, enhancing the efficiency of order fulfilment and customer satisfaction.

Similarly, ERP systems can also integrate with office productivity applications such as Microsoft Office Suite or Google Workspace. This integration helps in automating tasks such as financial reporting, project management, and data analysis. For instance, an ERP system can export financial reports directly into Excel spreadsheets for further analysis or create automated email notifications for project deadlines through Outlook or Gmail.

While cloud-based ERP solutions are becoming increasingly popular, many organizations still prefer on-premises ERP systems for their control over data security and customization capabilities. To this end it is integral to include any ERP solution in your Remote Desktop, private cloud solution. Providing quick, effeciint access and collaboration to all users and existing applications.

Popular ERP System that can be Hosted by PIP:

• SAP ERP: SAP ERP is a comprehensive solution that offers modules for finance, sales, production, human resources, and more. It is known for its strong integration capabilities with other SAP products and is widely used by large enterprises to manage complex business processes.
• Oracle ERP: Oracle ERP provides a robust suite of applications for financial management, procurement, project management, and more. Its flexibility and scalability make it a preferred choice for businesses looking to tailor the system to their specific needs.
• Microsoft Dynamics GP: Known for its ease of use and integration with other Microsoft products, Dynamics GP offers modules for financial management, inventory, sales, and payroll. It is particularly popular among small to mid-sized businesses.
• Infor ERP: Infor ERP offers industry-specific solutions and is known for its advanced analytics and user-friendly interface. It provides modules for finance, supply chain, human resources, and more, making it versatile for various business needs.
• Epicor ERP: Epicor ERP is designed for manufacturing, distribution, retail, and services industries. It offers comprehensive tools for managing production, supply chain, and financial operations, and is known for its flexibility and customization options.

Financial Software and Book Keeping Applications

Financial and bookkeeping software plays a crucial role in the management of a business’s finances, including tasks such as accounting, payroll, invoicing, and reporting. These software applications help businesses maintain accurate financial records, ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, and provide valuable insights into their financial health. Although cloud-based solutions are increasingly popular, many organizations still rely on on-premises systems for greater control over their data and customization options. Additionally, these systems can be accessed remotely, allowing for flexibility and maintaining data security.

Popular Financial Software and Book Keeping Applications that can be Hosted by PIP:

• QuickBooks Desktop: QuickBooks Desktop is an on-premises accounting software solution by Intuit, designed for small to medium-sized businesses. It offers comprehensive features for managing finances, including invoicing, expense tracking, payroll, and inventory management. QuickBooks Desktop is known for its robust reporting capabilities and ease of use, making it a popular choice for businesses seeking reliable and customizable accounting software.
• Sage 50cloud: Sage 50cloud, formerly known as Peachtree, is an on-premises accounting software that integrates with cloud services for additional functionality. It caters to small and medium-sized businesses, providing features such as invoicing, expense management, inventory tracking, and payroll processing. Sage 50cloud is favored for its flexibility, scalability, and strong security features, making it suitable for businesses with specific accounting needs.
• MYOB (Mind Your Own Business): MYOB is a well-known provider of business and accounting software, offering solutions like MYOB Essentials, MYOB AccountRight, and MYOB Advanced. MYOB AO (Accountants Office) is a comprehensive suite designed specifically for accounting practices, streamlining processes such as tax preparation, client management, and compliance. MYOB AO enables accountants to efficiently manage client data, automate workflows, and ensure compliance with local regulations, making it an invaluable tool for modern accounting firms.
• Reckon: Reckon offers a range of solutions tailored to the needs of small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and accounting professionals. Their flagship products, Reckon One and Reckon Accounts Hosted, provide cloud-based functionalities that allow users to manage their finances effortlessly from any location. Reckon’s software is renowned for its intuitive interface, powerful reporting tools, and robust features, such as invoicing, payroll, and expense tracking. By automating routine accounting tasks and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, Reckon helps businesses save time and reduce errors, ultimately contributing to better financial management and decision-making.
• Microsoft Dynamics GP: Microsoft Dynamics GP is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) software that includes robust financial and bookkeeping capabilities. It is designed for medium to large businesses and offers features such as general ledger, accounts payable and receivable, budgeting, and financial reporting. Microsoft Dynamics GP is highly customizable and integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft applications, making it a preferred choice for organizations seeking a comprehensive financial management solution.

Legal Practice Software Hosting

In the legal industry, managing vast amounts of documentation, client information, and case details efficiently is crucial. Legal software solutions, especially on-premises systems, play a significant role in optimizing workflows, ensuring compliance, and maintaining data security. Migrating these system to the cloud not only allows safe and secure access to all data from any location, it also provides easier integration between more modern cloud based applications, such as Microsoft 365.

Popular Legal Software Packages that can be Hosted by PIP:

• Rockend: Rockend is a prominent provider of legal software solutions, known for its comprehensive range of products designed to enhance the productivity and efficiency of law firms. One of Rockend’s flagship products is LEAP, a highly-regarded practice management system. LEAP combines powerful features such as document management, time tracking, billing, and accounting into a single platform.
• LEAP: is a comprehensive legal practice management solution that caters to the needs of small to medium-sized law firms. It offers an array of features designed to streamline daily operations, enhance client service, and improve overall efficiency.
• ProLaw: developed by Thomson Reuters, is a robust on-premises legal software solution designed for law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies. ProLaw integrates case management, document management, time tracking, and billing into a single platform, allowing for comprehensive management of all legal operations.
• PCLaw: now part of LexisNexis, is an on-premises legal practice management software that has been trusted by law firms for decades. It covers essential functions such as case management, time tracking, billing, and accounting, helping firms manage their operations efficiently.

Graphic Design and CAD Software (Computer Aided Design)

Graphic design and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) applications are essential tools for professionals in industries such as architecture, engineering, construction, and multimedia. These applications allow users to create detailed drawings, 3D models, and visual content with precision and efficiency. While cloud-based solutions are gaining traction, many organizations still prefer on-premises software for better control over data security and customization. Furthermore, these applications can be run in a remote desktop environment, allowing users to access them from anywhere while maintaining the integrity and performance of on-premises deployment.

Many Graphic design and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) applications are still best suited to running locally on dedicated high end work stations. These workstations have high end, extremely fast graphic adapters installed in order to decrease any lag in he creation of designs and produce smooth animations of 3D rendered parts. To this end, PIPs latest private clouds as well as Microsoft’s Azure Public clouds, both provide dedicated graphics cards to any cloud computing package. This way the only lag is created by the underlying connection to the cloud infrastructure. This bridging technology now makes it feasible to share, collaborate and work anywhere, even in a CAD environment.

Popular Graphics Design an CAD Software that can be Hosted by PIP:

• AutoCAD: AutoCAD by Autodesk is one of the most popular CAD software applications used for 2D and 3D design and drafting. It is highly customizable and supports a wide range of industries, including architecture, engineering, and construction. AutoCAD can be installed on local machines and accessed remotely through a virtual desktop infrastructure.
• SolidWorks: SolidWorks is a solid modelling CAD software used primarily in mechanical engineering and design. It offers comprehensive tools for designing complex parts and assemblies, and its simulation capabilities allow for testing and analysis. SolidWorks can be deployed on-premises and accessed remotely, ensuring data security and accessibility.
• Revit: Also by Autodesk, Revit is a Building Information Modelling (BIM) software application used by architects, engineers, and construction professionals to design buildings and infrastructure. Revit supports multi-disciplinary collaboration and can be installed on local servers for remote access.
• Adobe Creative Suite: Adobe’s suite of graphic design software, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, is widely used by professionals for creating and editing images, vector graphics, and layouts. Though Adobe has moved many of its products to a cloud-based model, older versions of Creative Suite can still be installed and run on local systems.
• CorelDRAW: CorelDRAW Graphics Suite is a powerful collection of graphic design tools that include vector illustration, layout, photo editing, and typography. It is known for its user-friendly interface and robust feature set, making it a favourite among designers.

Development and Testing Environments

Software development teams can utilize cloud-hosted integrated development environments (IDEs) like Visual Studio Code, Eclipse, and JetBrains IntelliJ IDEA. Cloud-based development and testing environments allow for scalable infrastructure, enabling teams to deploy, test, and iterate quickly and efficiently.

These quick and simple servers can be turned on in minutes and destroyed just as quick. The instant snap shot technology allows you to try multiple scenarios, patches or tests and quickly revert back seconds or hours to take a new approach.

These quick and simple servers can be turned on in minutes and destroyed just as quick. The instant snap shot technology allows you to try multiple scenarios, patches or tests and quickly revert back seconds or hours to take a new approach.

Industry Examples for Hosted Servers

Hosted Healthcare Services

In the healthcare sector, physicians frequently move between surgical centers, hospitals, aged care facilities, and their residences, consistently needing access to essential patient information. Transitioning their primary application to a cloud-based platform allows them to access patient data anytime and from anywhere. Additionally, they can have peace of mind knowing that their information is securely backed up and readily accessible at all times.

Hosted Finance Services

Private remote desktops for employees in the finance sector offer a centralized workspace regardless of their location, which is essential in today’s work-from-home landscape. Hosting an entire company’s financial system on a private cloud ensures that management, owners, and external accountants can access it easily at any time—day or night. Coupled with enhanced security, effective management, reliable uptime, and data integrity that this system guarantees, it becomes an indispensable workspace solution even for the smallest businesses.

Hosting for Manufacturing

In the manufacturing sector, providing the entire workplace with a centralised cloud-hosted platform is necessary. From the time an idea is created, transferred to the design and CAD team, rolled out to the shop floor, sold to clients, and then accounted for, the whole system relies on efficient industry software, multiple departments, and a central location for collaboration. A centralised private platform in the cloud is essential. Whether your team is all under one roof or scattered across the globe, this central platform will enhance communication and collaboration while keeping your data and intellectual property safe, secure, and backed up.

Try PIPs Hosted Solutions today.

Hosting applications via remote desktop and in the cloud offers numerous advantages, including flexibility, scalability, and cost savings. By leveraging these technologies, businesses across various industries can enhance their workflows, improve collaboration, and maintain productivity in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. As cloud and remote desktop solutions continue to advance, their applications will become even more integral to modern business operations.

Get in touch with one of our representatives today and find out how moving some of your application to a hosted environment can save you time, money resources and management.

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