The Ubuntu operating system has been growing in popularity for both individual users and businesses in recent years. For the uninitiated, it is an open-source operating system that is based on the Linux / Debian GNU distribution. It uses all the main features of a Unix based operating system but has the ability to customize the user interface to your own specific requirements. Initially, many people believed that individuals would solely use it. However, it is steadily becoming more popular for business use as the accessibility, functionality, and ease of use of the system become more widely understood.
In this article, the focus is on using Ubuntu as the main operating system for your small business. Some of the key benefits of using Ubuntu for business applications will be discussed in detail.
Cost considerations
In 2023, many small businesses are facing a challenging economic climate. High inflation levels and geo-political factors (such as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine) are increasing prices in the energy and raw material markets which is making it harder for many small firms to remain profitable. It is therefore of paramount importance that small businesses look for inventive ways to reduce their costs in every facet of the organization. A key way to reduce IT costs is to switch from a Windows based operating system to the Ubuntu operating system. This is because Ubuntu is available completely free of charge for businesses. Conversely, if your firm uses Microsoft for business systems and applications, there is an associated fee for each system. Any firm that uses multiple applications will have a considerable ongoing cost requirement for these systems. In short, switching to Ubuntu can be an easy way to cut costs in terms of IT infrastructure fees.
Compatibility and ease of use
The Ubuntu operating system has quickly built a reputation for being exceptionally easy to use. There is not even a prerequisite to have high IT literacy levels to use the system effectively. This can mean that entry-level staff in your firm can quickly adapt to the system even if they do not possess advanced IT skills. In addition, Ubuntu can manage cloud-based systems and supports the use of an api management platform to control internet-based applications and programs. API use is becoming widespread, even in small businesses, as there is a need to deploy, manage, and secure an increasing range of cloud-based applications. The seamless integration of Ubuntu with API management platforms means that IT staff can use the system easily to amend and update various programs without needing a high degree of specialist knowledge.
Open source software
As a brief final point, Ubuntu has a key benefit of being constructed from open source software. This makes it the perfect platform for staff members with advanced coding skills, as they can make significant changes to the design and features of the platform to tailor the functionality of it to the business’s needs. Conversely, operating systems that are not open source require firms to use them as they have been designed with little room to customize them to their needs. Put simply, if your small firm has a dedicated IT team with experienced coders, using Ubuntu can give you a bespoke operating system that is ideal for your business needs.