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Cloud Tasks

Cloud Tasks: Working Efficiently Together

The term cloud task describes a small job that has been divided into many smaller tasks. They are then processed by several individuals. The results are collected in a mutual network, in this case, the cloud. In practice, platforms such as clickworker use it to share work. These tasks can be anything from a simple confirmation of data to writing content descriptions. These tasks are often uploaded to the crowd in large numbers. However, due to the nature of crowdsourcing, the work is usually completed within a short space of time despite this.

Cloud tasks©   Flikr by quapan

Benefits of Work-Sharing

Tasks can be processed quickly, easily and efficiently with the help of cloud tasks. Particular phenomena, such as the knowledge of the crowd, bring effective results. This method of working also suits many people preferring to slot in this extra work as and when they feel like it. People complete tasks when out shopping or at home when keeping an eye on the kids. This is ideal for those who want to make some extra income. This style of working suits a lot of people. However, it is especially helpful for stay at home parents, students, retirees and more.

Cloud Tasks Past and Present

The History

While the actual cloud as we know it may not have been around, this style of working is not new. Shared work systems have been used since primeval times. But the internet has revolutionized it because many users have simultaneous access to a mutual database to process tasks together. This format of shared working has benefitted humans for a very long time. Back when we were hunter-gatherers, each person would do their own small task. One would hunt, the other, prepare, another cook etc. All of these small tasks kept groups of people alive!

Transformation Examples

It may be difficult for those new to the concept of cloud tasks to think about how they were and still are implemented. Here are some examples to make that easier!

The NHS

From the 1970s the English National Health Service (NHS) had to record the cost of prescribed medication. Back then, a doctor’s office wouldn’t have a computer in it. When a prescription was issued it was hand-written. When a pharmacist filled the prescription they would retain the receipts that were sent to the pricing office. This office would receive thousands of paper prescriptions a day. Staff sat with piles of them on their desks. The details on each prescription were manually inputted into a computer system. Due to the large number of staff and their skills these prescriptions were processed very quickly. However, employing so many people was costly and errors could be made. These days prescriptions are mostly electronic and those that aren’t are electronically scanned.

Stock Checking

A more modern example would be random stock checking. In the past, retailers simply had to trust that their stores were functioning well. Bot what if a retailer wanted to ensure their stores were adequately stocking their shelves? They could hire a team or workers via a company such as clickworker.com to check that for them! Workers go out in the field to the respective stores with their phones. There they answer questions and take photos based on what the retailer is looking for. That data is then sent to the retailer so they can follow up with specific stores if needed. They can also keep the data on file to compare after any required procedural changes have been identified.

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Evolution of Cloud Tasks

When they were first thought of and used, cloud tasks were often very simple in their nature and design. There were usually only available online via a desktop in a home office or internet cafe. They mainly consisted of basic data verification or input. These days cloud tasks can be far more complex, some even require workers to pass training and qualifications. Even more exciting is the fact these tasks can now be done on the go. Most people use smartphones and apps such as the clickworker app to create a way for cloud tasks to be completed by workers out in the open. This means data can be captured in shops, bars, restaurants and more which broadens the scope of work possible. Therefore companies will serve even more clients.

Tasks on the Go!

This evolution has helped so many companies save money and time. While basic functions like data input do still have some value, these more complex tasks show just how quickly companies can gather data that may not just save them money but make them money in the long term. The use of mobile phones out in the field is one of the most exciting. No longer do people have to use covert equipment, they can simply take a quick photo and no one will think anything of it. This makes it easier for the worker to complete their field cloud task without interruption.