The decision-making process for managers is not as simple as cloud vs. no cloud. Once an organization is sold on pursuing the benefits of a cloud solution, there are countless factors it must consider in order to incorporate the new platform effectively into its infrastructure. This week on the blog, the experts at RSM discuss public vs. private cloud solutions for business, one of the earliest and most influential decisions to be made when considering cloud migration.

Meet long-time Foundation Member HRPro/BenePro and hear how this talent-focused company uses Automation Alley membership to share their message across Southeast Michigan.

Automation Alley added 15 new members in July. Click the link below to meet them.

In any business—whether you’re selling a product, service or technology—customer service is key to success. The Internet has provided us with a nearly unlimited number of options when it comes to buying. Because of these endless options, it is up to companies selling to offer potential customers the best total experience. This week on the blog, Automation Alley's Kim Krutsch examines how a company can create a culture of strong customer service from top to bottom.

Both four-year degrees and trade schooling have their pros and cons, but student should be aware and educated of the options and opportunities associated to both, says guest blogger Brigitte Neumayr, business development manager at ICONMA. The proactive approach many schools and employers are taking to educate young adults in today’s market will hopefully prove to be successful in closing the skills gap.

What is “news?” It’s a critical question when considering whether certain information is appropriately shared in a press release. While communication vehicles have expanded over the last decade or so, Barb Fornasiero, principal and founder of EAFocus Inc. Public Relations, says what constitutes as actual news has not. Before you invest time in writing and posting and/or distributing a press release to media, determine if it fits the parameters of news. Read more on the blog.

Creating a solid marketing and promotional campaign to accelerate your business is no easy task. Whether you’re launching a product, selling a service, or promoting an event or program within your organization, reaching your target audience has become harder than ever in the modern era of social media and automated ad technology. Between limited budgets and noise in the marketplace, how can small and medium-sized businesses break through to deliver their message in a meaningful way? This week on the blog, Nicole Kampe, Automation Alley's communications and media manager, takes you through her 10-step marketing checklist for businesses.