Part of being a proactive business owner is identifying business goals and determining how to meet those goals in a cost-effective manner using available tools. Some of the most accessible business-growth and improvement tools today are web-based applications that reside in “the cloud” -- commonly called “cloud computing."

Wikipedia defines “cloud computing” as, “Internet-based computing, whereby shared servers provide resources, software, and data to computers and other devices on demand, as with the electricity grid.” Or, more succinctly: the use of web-based tools to get stuff done.

Let’s examine some common business goals and take a look at how cloud computing can help.

Goal: Improve customer service

Let’s say your company wants to improve customer service. You might consider using an online help desk solution, like Kayako, which allows your customers to submit trouble tickets or support requests at their convenience, day or night. You don’t have to worry about software integration, upgrades, compatibility, or software requirements because all the computing power is done online and offsite. This allows your customers to do business with your company when it’s convenient for them. Be sure to treat your online customer service communications as seriously as if the customer had called.

You might also test some web-based applications, like LivePerson, as a way to offer real-time customer service via your website. Because someone is available to answer questions as they arise, this may decrease shopping cart and online lead generation abandonment rates.

If you sell products online, does your company’s online ordering system link to your inventory system so customers are unable to purchase products that are not in stock? If not, your first stop on the cloud train needs to be investigating online systems that can handle order processing and inventory tracking. Recently, I tried to purchase an item from a large, nationwide retailer only to be told, after I took the time to input my purchasing information, the item was not available to be shipped or for in-store pickup. Needless to say their competitor, that doesn’t have brick-and-mortar stores, secured my business that day.

Goal: Increase lead generation

When potential customers and clients visit your website, do you do more than just hawk your wares or talk about your company? Focus on generating leads for your business’ future marketing needs. If you have a service-based business, create a lead-generation tool that qualifies the visitor as an ideal prospect; if you sell products, have samples or coupons available in exchange for an e-mail or physical mailing address.

Once this information is secured, you need to store it securely so that the data is able to be mined later. Using a tool like 37signals' contact management application, Highrise, in conjunction with a list management service like Aweber, might be just the combination of tools your operation needs to convert your hard-won leads into actual sales.