With smartphones keeping us in touch all day, they are the ultimate tool for improving the efficiency of running your business when you're not in the office. Today, businesses are using technology to help share info on site. Sharing photos or plans instantly can help save you time, but you need a simple way for staff or clients to access the same data. Cloud storage and sharing platforms are the answer – it means you can securely save, access and share images and files anytime, from any connected device.

Some things to think about when choosing cloud storage

1. How much?

   Depending on how many photos and documents you are uploading, free storage allowance might be enough. However, if it is not enough, you'll want to consider paying for additional storage packages. These are usually for a small monthly fee and can be increased when you need to.
   
   If you have larger documents you need to share, think about using a sharing service like WeTransfer. WeTransfer is a file-sharing site that allows you to email large files up to 2 GB for free with a shareable link. You type in your email address and the recipient's email address, add a message, attach the file, and send. The links expire after 7 days though, so you'll need to ensure the recipient accesses them before it expires.

2. How secure is it?

   Most are pretty secure, but if you have sensitive data (such as customer or financial info), you will want to choose an option that requires specific security steps to access it. Just make sure you set security settings carefully before sharing.

3. Which device or platform?

   To access files on any device, check out if the storage is specific to the device or platform or available everywhere. Start with the key players – Google Drive, DropBox, Apple iCloud and Microsoft OneDrive.
   
   Whatever you choose, if you want some help getting your tech set up and running, Noel Leeming's Tech Solutions team can help; call their friendly team on 0800 555 989 to find out more or check out our handy set up services.

4. Is it available everywhere?

   Having a system to share files via the cloud means if you have access to the internet, you can always use it no matter where you are. To speed things up on-site, check out the relevant app versions through Google Play or the App Store and download them so you can quickly and easily find the files you need.

To grab a great deal on the latest tech, head to Noel Leeming and remember to use your Trade Card to access n3 pricing. To find your nearest store, head to noelleeming.co.nz/stores.