As marketing departments and in-house agencies continue to adapt to the post-pandemic landscape, the utilization of reliable, efficient cloud storage for work-in-progress (WIP) creative file management remains essential. Today, cloud storage solutions offering accessibility from any location have become the industry standard.
Traditional file-sharing and document backup methods have evolved into all-in-one cloud storage solutions, indispensable for maintaining seamless workflows, secure data backups, and robust data protection for businesses of all sizes.
Cloud storage offers a centralized online location for storing and accessing files and folders. With the ability to access documents from any device, cloud storage solutions facilitate seamless file sharing, team collaboration, and remote work. This is particularly crucial for creative teams comprising remote workers, clients, and partners.
When evaluating cloud storage options, it is vital to consider plans that encompass multi-user support and productivity tools. Such plans enable collaboration and provide comprehensive features for efficient file management and organization.
Cloud storage offers numerous advantages, including cost reduction, seamless collaboration, automatic and secure file backups, compliance with data privacy regulations, and controlled sharing of files of any size. Additional benefits encompass device-agnostic file access and dependable customer support.
Cloud storage has emerged as an indispensable solution for creative organizations seeking to consolidate their work-in-progress files and optimize workflows. User-friendly interfaces and extensive feature sets make cloud storage ideal for businesses of all sizes and varying technical expertise. By embracing cloud storage, creative organizations can enhance productivity, minimize data loss risks, and ultimately drive success and growth.
The below list of cloud storage providers has been curated for their ability to meet the needs of a creative organizations. As published, I've captured the current key features, pros/cons, and pricing. As with any software purchase, the creative organization should look to their use cases and requirements to guide them in the selection process.
Stockpress distinguishes itself in the file management industry by offering digital asset management functionality tailored for creative organizations. The platform enables users to store, organize, and share files from a centralized location, improving workflow and collaboration.
One of Stockpress's standout features is its robust search functionality, which includes advanced filters and tagging options. This lets users quickly locate files based on file type, date, keywords, and more. Furthermore, Stockpress provides security and access controls, customizable permissions for users and groups, and collaboration tools like commenting, file sharing, and task assignments.
Stockpress.co Key Features:
• The combination of folder structure from traditional file management with digital asset management features
• Search and filter based on file names, descriptions, tags, and file metadata
• Custom user roles and permissionsFile expiration dates and trackingVisual search
• File taggingAI auto-taggingIPTC & EXIF mapping
Stockpress.co Pros:
• Duplicate file identification
• Advanced file management features, including folder-level permissions, file versioning, and customizable metadata
• Branded Platform
• SSO AWS Hosting
• Unlimited storage options
Stockpress.co Cons:
• No phone support (done by chat)
Stockpress.co Pricing:
• Basic – 5GB for free
• Start – $99.99 per month for 100GB with unlimited users
• Grow – $250.99 per month for 500GB with unlimited users
• Establish – $475.00 per month for 1TB with unlimited users
Adobe Creative Cloud offers a centralized cloud storage solution designed specifically for creative professionals. The platform includes tools and features such as Adobe Spark, Adobe Portfolio, and Adobe Fonts, catering to a wide range of creative needs.
Collaboration with team members and clients is seamless, allowing users to share files while retaining control. Automatic and secure file backups ensure creative work remains protected. Additionally, Adobe Creative Cloud provides access to powerful creative applications like Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and more.
Adobe Creative Cloud Key Features:
• Centralized location for creative professionals to store and manage their creative files.
• Organize files into folders, and search for files using keywords or metadata.
• Syncs files across all devices, making it easy for creatives to access their work from anywhere.
• Access and integration with all creative cloud applications
• Adobe Creative Cloud storage also includes Adobe Fonts, Adobe Stock, and Adobe Spark.
• Creative Cloud assets can be used in MS PowerPoint and Word via Add-ins
Adobe Creative Cloud Pros:
• Each creative team member with a license gets 100GB of storage space
• A centralized location for storage and management of their Adobe creative files
• Built-in tools for collaboration with team members and clients, enabling sharing of files of any size
• Automatic and secure file backups.
Adobe Creative Cloud Cons:
• The Abobe Creative cloud only supports Adobe Creative Cloud applications files; if your project folders have non-adobe files, they need alternative storage
• Using Creative Cloud Storage locks you into Adobe tools
Adobe Creative Cloud Pricing:
• All apps plan: This plan includes access to all creative applications, as well as 100GB of cloud storage, for $52.99 per month
• Creative Cloud for teams: This plan is designed for teams and includes access to all creative applications, 100GB of cloud storage per user, and advanced collaboration tools, for $79.99 per month per user
• Creative Cloud for enterprise: This plan is designed for large organizations and includes customized pricing based on the organization's specific needs
• It's important to note that the pricing may vary depending on the country and region of the user.
Dropbox is an efficient file storage and sharing platform that offers a plethora of features to facilitate seamless storage, sharing, and access to files from anywhere globally. Dropbox lets users consolidate all their files, including documents, photos, videos, and more, in a central location accessible from any device.
Dropbox's collaboration tools simplify file sharing and collaboration. Users can share files through a straightforward link or invite collaborators to work on specific files or folders. Permissions management allows users to control who can view, edit, or comment on files. Additional features such as automatic syncing, version history, and file recovery ensure files remain current and accessible. Integration with other applications and services enhances workflow efficiency.
Dropbox Key Features:
• File access from anywherePassword manager – store your passwords with Dropbox
• Dropbox Paper – a proprietary editing app
• Smartsync – files-on-demand allows you to save space on your computer by storing files in the cloud
• File tagging – add hashtags to your files to help stay organized
Dropbox Pros:
• User-friendly interface and easy-to-use platformIntegration with popular business apps and services, including Microsoft Office and Salesforce
• Large storage capacity and file size limits
• Security and privacy features, including end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and granular access controls
• Customizable branding options and a customizable user interface
• Collaboration tools, including real-time document editing and commenting
• Mobile apps for iOS and Android devicesThird-party integrations and API support
Dropbox Cons:
• Limited customization options for certain features, such as the file organization structure
• Limited advanced reporting and analytics tools
• Some users may find the security features to be less robust than some other platforms
• Limited control over file versioning
Dropbox Pricing:
• Basic – 2GB for freePlus – $9.99 per month for 2TB
• Family – $16.99 per month for 2TB and up to 6 users
• Professional – $16.58 per month for 3TB
• Standard – $15 per month/person for 5TB
• Advanced – $24 per month/person for unlimited storage
• Enterprise – contact for details
Sync.com is a versatile file storage and sharing platform that helps individuals and businesses store, access, and share files online. Users can consolidate all file types in a single, central location and access them from any device.
Sync.com emphasizes security, providing end-to-end encryption for all uploaded files, ensuring data remains safe and secure. Additional security features include two-factor authentication and remote device wiping. Sync.com's strict no-knowledge policy guarantees user privacy, allowing only the user to access their files. With an intuitive interface and affordable pricing, Sync.com is ideal for those seeking a secure, reliable cloud-based storage solution.
Sync.com Key Features:
• Sync CloudFiles – a files-on-demand feature that allows you to save space on your computer by storing files in the cloud only
• Custom branding – put your company logo on full display when sharing, perfect for building trust with clients and customers
• Centralized folder collaboration – set up group access to folders and files with permissions such as view-only and view-edit, which makes document editing and collaboration with all of your team members easy
• Client file sharing – share files with clients - the people you share with do not need a Sync accountMulti-user administration – manage access control to files and folders per user, all with centralized billing
• Automatic backup – keep all your files backed up, including every version of every file, with quick and easy restore if needed
• Automatically backup videos and photos on your camera roll
• Microsoft Office integration – work on your Docs, Spreadsheets, and PPTs in Sync from the desktop, mobile apps, and the web
• Strong encryption – help protect your data from unauthorized access with end-to-end encrypted features and unique access controls that protect user privacy without the need for additional software or add-ons
Sync.com Pros:
• File access from anywhere
• Unlimited data transfer
• Up to unlimited storage space options
• Strong encryption and data privacy compliance to keep your files secureIn-house customer support
• Full suite of backup, sync, and sharing business productivity features
• HIPAA compliance for healthcare providers included on top-tier plans at no extra cost
Sync.com Cons:
• The free plan doesn't include all the business features
• Phone support limited to the Unlimited plan
Sync.com Pricing:
• Free plan – 5GB for free
• Pro Solo Basic – $8 per month for 2TB
• Pro Solo Professional – $20 per month for 6TB
• Pro Teams Standard – $6 per month/person for 1TB
• Pro Teams Unlimited – $15 per month/person for unlimited storage
• Enterprise – contact for details
Box offers a range of features to help individuals and businesses efficiently manage their files and projects. With Box, users can consolidate files in a central location and access them from any device.
Box simplifies file sharing and real-time collaboration, allowing users to invite team members to work on specific files or folders, assign tasks and deadlines, and provide feedback within the platform. Advanced security features ensure file protection, including two-factor authentication, data encryption, and granular access controls.
Box Key Features:
• Sync CloudFiles – a files-on-demand feature that allows you to save space on your computer by storing files in the cloud only
• Custom branding – put your company logo on full display when sharing, perfect for building trust with clients and customers
• Centralized folder collaboration – set up group access to folders and files with permissions such as view-only and view-edit, which makes document editing and collaboration with all of your team members easy
• Client file sharing – share files with clients - the people you share with do not need a Sync accountMulti-user administration – manage access control to files and folders per user, all with centralized billing
• Automatic backup – keep all your files backed up, including every version of every file, with quick and easy restore if needed
• Automatically backup videos and photos on your camera roll
• Microsoft Office integration – work on your Docs, Spreadsheets, and PPTs in Sync from the desktop, mobile apps, and the web
• Strong encryption – help protect your data from unauthorized access with end-to-end encrypted features and unique access controls that protect user privacy without the need for additional software or add-ons
Box Pros:
• File access from anywhere
• Unlimited data transfer
• Up to unlimited storage space options
• 1,500+ app integrations
• Strong encryption and data privacy compliance to keep your files secureIn-house customer support
• Full suite of backup, sync, and sharing business productivity features
• HIPAA compliance for healthcare providers included on top-tier plans at no extra cost
Box Cons:
• Limited customization options for certain features, such as the file organization structure
• Some users may find the interface to be less user-friendly compared to some other platforms
• Limited third-party integrations compared to some other platforms
• Customer support could be more responsive
Box Pricing:
• Individual – 10GB for Free
• Personal Pro – $10 per month for 100GB
• Business Starter – $5 per month/person for 100GB and up to 10 users
• Business – $15 per month/person for unlimited storage
• Business Plus – $25 per month/person for unlimited storage
• Enterprise – $35 per month/person for unlimited storage
• Enterprise Plus – contact for details
Google Drive enables users to store, share, and access files from any device with an internet connection. Google Drive supports all file types and provides seamless access from anywhere.
Integration with other Google products and services, such as Google Docs, Google Sheets, and Google Slides, allows users to collaborate on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations in real time. Google Drive's advanced security features, including two-factor authentication, data encryption, and granular access controls, ensure data protection.
Google Drive Key Features:
• File access from anywhere – with desktop, mobile, and web-based access for easy access to your filesIntegration with • • Google productivity tools – works well with Google Docs, Google Meet, and GmailChromebook compatibility – Google • Drive is one of the only solutions that has a full suite of built-in Chromebook features
Google Drive Pros:
• Generous 15 GB of free storage
• Integrates well with other Google products, including Chromebook
• Built-in spam ware, malware, and virus protection
Google Drive Cons:
• Limited business productivity features compared to Sync, Dropbox, or Box.com
• Confusing pricing and plan options
Google Drive Pricing:
• Free – 15GB for freeBasic – $1.99 per month for 100GB
• Standard – $2.99 per month for 200GB
• Premium – $9.99 per month for 2TB
• Business Starter – $6 per month/user for 30GB
• Business Standard – $12 per month/user for 2TB
• Business Plus – $18 per month/user for 5TB
• Enterprise – contact for pricing
Jottacloud is a file storage and backup platform headquartered in Norway that helps individuals and businesses securely store, access, and share files online. Jottacloud allows users to consolidate files in a central location and access them from any device.
One of Jottacloud's standout features is its advanced backup functionality, enabling automatic cloud backups of files and folders. This feature ensures data protection and security, even in cases of device failure or data loss. Jottacloud also offers advanced security features, such as end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and password-protected sharing, ensuring files remain secure.
Jottacloud Key Features:
• File access from anywhere – with desktop, mobile, and web-based access for easy access to your files
• Photo backup – Jottacloud includes dedicated storage to keep photos backed up and organized
• Bulk pricing for business users – businesses don't pay separately for individual user licenses like other providers. Instead, companies pay for a tiered amount of users
Jottacloud Pros:
• Unlimited user plan for larger businesses
• Zero emission, sustainable energy consumption
• GDPR Complience
Jottacloud Cons:
• Business plans limited to 1 TB of storage
Jottacloud Pricing:
• Free – 5GB for freePersonal – €9.90 per month for Unlimited storage space
• Home 1 – €6.90 per month for 1TB and up to 5 users
• Home 5 – €13.50 per month for 5TB and up to 5 users
• Home 10 – €59 per month for 10TB and up to 5 users
• Home 20 – €115 per month for 20TB and up to 5 users
• Business Free – 5GB for free for 2 users
• Business Small – €12 per month 1TB for 2 users
• Business Medium – €18 per month for 1TB for 10 users
• Business Large – €49 per month for 1TB for unlimited users
Nextcloud delivers a versatile cloud storage platform that enables users to access and store files from any location and on any device, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. In addition, Nextcloud promotes seamless team collaboration by offering real-time editing and collaboration tools for various file types.
A core focus of Nextcloud is data security, incorporating end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and data sovereignty to safeguard sensitive information. Furthermore, Nextcloud provides customization options and integrations with popular business applications and services, allowing organizations to adapt the platform to their specific needs.
Nextcloud Key Features:
• Video conferencing and chat
• Project management and task trackingIntegration with popular business apps and services
• Customizable interface and branding
• Activity tracking and auditingMobile apps for iOS and Android devices
• Extensive API for customization and integration
Nextcloud Pros
• High level of security and privacy, including end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and data sovereignty
• The open-source nature allows for flexibility and customization
• Features, including file storage and sharing, real-time collaboration, video conferencing, chat, and project management
Integrations with popular business apps and services, making it easy to work with your existing tools
• Customizable interface and branding options
Nextcloud Cons:
• Requires technical knowledge to set up and maintain
• Potential for slow performance if not properly optimized
• Some features may require additional plugins or integrations, which can add to the overall cost and complexity
• No dedicated support team for self-hosted installations, which may require additional resources for troubleshooting and maintenance
Nextcloud Pricing:
• Nextcloud Basic: €36/year for up to 100 users, includes basic features like file storage and sharing, real-time collaboration, and mobile apps.
• Nextcloud Standard: €65/year for up to 100 users, includes all Basic features plus additional security and customization options.
• Nextcloud Premium: €95.50/year for up to 100 users, includes all Standard features plus priority support and additional features like Talk and OnlyOffice.
• Nextcloud Enterprise: Custom pricing for larger organizations and enterprises includes advanced customization, integration options, and dedicated support.
Zoho WorkDrive is a cloud-based platform that facilitates centralized file storage, management, and sharing for individuals and teams. Users can access files from any location and device with an internet connection.
Zoho WorkDrive offers real-time document editing, commenting, and task management features to enhance team collaboration. Additionally, users can create custom workflows to automate tasks and optimize efficiency.
Zoho WorkDrive emphasizes advanced security and privacy measures, including end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and granular access controls, ensuring files and data protection.
ZOHO Workdrive Key Features:
• Real-time document editing and commenting
• Custom workflows and task managementIntegration with other Zoho apps and third-party services
• Advanced security and privacy features, including end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and granular access controls
• Custom branding options
• Customizable access permissions for different users and groups
• Offline access to filesMobile apps for iOS and Android devicesAudit logs and activity tracking
ZOHO Workdrive Pros:
• User-friendly interface and customizable branding options
• The suite of features, including real-time document editing, custom workflows, and task management
• Security and privacy features, including end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and granular access controls
• Integration with other Zoho apps and third-party services
• Mobile apps for iOS and Android devices
ZOHO Workdrive Cons:
• Some features, such as advanced analytics and customization options, may require additional plugins or integrations, which can add to the overall cost and complexity
• Limited third-party integrations compared to some other cloud-based document management platforms
• Limited customization options for certain features, such as the file organization structure
ZOHO Workdrive Pricing:
• Free plan: up to 5 users, 5 GB storage per user
• Standard plan: $3 per user per month, 100 GB storage per user
• Premium plan: $6 per user per month, 1 TB storage per user
Egnyte is designed to help businesses securely store, manage, and share data through a cloud-based platform. Users can access their files from any location and device with an internet connection.
Egnyte promotes efficient team collaboration with real-time document editing, commenting, and task management features. Custom workflows can be created to automate tasks and streamline workflows, resulting in improved productivity.
Egnyte prioritizes security and privacy, incorporating end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and granular access controls to protect data.
Egnyte Key Features:
• Advanced collaboration tools, including real-time document editing and commenting]Customizable workflows and task managementIntegration with popular business apps and services, including Microsoft Office and Salesforce
• Comprehensive security and privacy features, including end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and granular access controls
• Custom branding options and a customizable user interface
• Customizable access permissions for different users and groupsMobile apps for iOS and Android devicesAudit logs and activity tracking
• Advanced reporting and analytics tools
• Custom retention policies for different types of files and documents
• Multi-region deployment options for businesses with data sovereignty concerns
Egnyte Pros:
• The suite of features, including real-time document editing, custom workflows, and task management
• Security and privacy features, including end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and granular access controls
• Integration with popular business apps and services, including Microsoft Office and Salesforce
• Multi-region deployment options for businesses with data sovereignty concerns
• Customizable interface and branding options
• Advanced reporting and analytics tools
Egnyte Cons:
• Some features may require additional plugins or integrations, which can add to the overall cost and complexity
• Limited customization options for certain features, such as the file organization structure
• Some users may find the interface to be less user-friendly compared to some other platforms
Egnyte Pricing: Pricing is not listed on the website
ShareFile is a cloud-based platform designed for businesses to store, manage, and share data securely. Users can access their files from any location and device with an internet connection.
ShareFile provides extensive features that foster efficient team collaboration, such as real-time document editing, commenting, and task management. Additionally, users can create custom workflows to automate tasks and enhance productivity.
ShareFile's standout features are its security and privacy measures, including end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and granular access controls, ensuring that data remains safe and secure.
Sharefile Key Features:
• Advanced collaboration tools, including real-time document editing and commenting
• Customizable workflows and task managementIntegration with popular business apps and services, including Microsoft Office and Salesforce
• Comprehensive security and privacy features, including end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and granular access controls
• Custom branding options and a customizable user interface
• Customizable access permissions for different users and groupsMobile apps for iOS and Android devices
• Audit logs and activity tracking
• Advanced reporting and analytics tools
• Custom retention policies for different types of files and documents
• Multi-region deployment options for businesses with data sovereignty concerns
Sharefile Pros:
• The suite of features, including real-time document editing, custom workflows, and task management
• Security and privacy features, including end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and granular access controls
• Integration with popular business apps and services, including Microsoft Office and Salesforce
• Multi-region deployment options for businesses with data sovereignty concerns
• Customizable interface and branding optionsMobile apps for iOS and Android devices
Sharefile Cons:
• Some features may require additional plugins or integrations, which can add to the overall cost and complexity
• Limited customization options for certain features, such as the file organization structure
• Some users may find the interface to be less user-friendly compared to some other platforms
Sharefile Pricing (based on annual contract):
• Standard: $50 per month, up to 5 users., with additional users $9.90 per user per month
• Advanced: $80 per month for up to 5 users, with additional users at $16 per user per month
• Premium: $122 per month for up to 5 users, with additional users at $24.30 per user per month
• Virtual Data Room: $328 per month for up to 5 users, call about additional users
OpenDrive offers a cloud-based storage and collaboration platform that caters to businesses of all sizes. The platform provides unlimited cloud storage and an intuitive interface and can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.
OpenDrive presents various storage plans tailored to individual and business needs. Designed for scalability, companies can easily adjust storage capacity as required. Advanced features include real-time document editing and commenting, folder-level permissions, and customizable retention policies.
OpenDrive Key Features:
• Unlimited cloud storage optionsReal-time document editing and commenting
• Folder-level permissions and customizable retention policiesAdvanced collaboration tools, including team folders and file versioning
• Security and privacy features, including end-to-end encryption and multi-factor authentication
• Integration with popular business apps and services, such as Microsoft Office and Google DriveMobile apps for iOS and Android devices
• Automated backups and sync optionsReporting and analytics tools
OpenDrive Pros:
• Unlimited cloud storage options
• Collaboration features, including real-time document editing and commenting and team folders
• Security and privacy features, including end-to-end encryption and multi-factor authentication
• Integration with popular business apps and services, such as Microsoft Office and Google Drive
• Mobile apps for iOS and Android devices
• Automated backups and sync options
• Reporting and analytics tools
OpenDrive Cons:
• Limited customization options for certain features, such as the file organization structure
• Limited third-party integrations compared to some other platforms
• Some users may find the interface to be less user-friendly compared to some other platforms
• No file sharing or collaboration features in the Personal plan
OpenDrive Pricing (based on monthly contract):
• Personal Plan:
- Free for up to 5GB storage
- $5.00/month for 500GB, additional users $1.00 each up to 7 users
- $9.95/month for up to unlimited storage, additional users $9.95 each up to 4 users
• Business Plan:
- $7.00/month for up to 500GB, additional users $1.00 each up to 7 users
- $29.95/month for up to unlimited storage, additional users $4.95 each
• Enterprise Plan:
- Custom pricing available for businesses with large storage and user requirements
The importance of adopting a suitable cloud storage solution for managing work-in-progress creative files cannot be overstated. Embracing cloud storage allows creative organizations to capitalize on numerous benefits, including cost savings, seamless collaboration, and secure data protection. In doing so, these organizations can streamline their workflows, bolster productivity, and foster growth in the competitive, ever-evolving post-pandemic landscape.
For creative organizations in need of assistance in identifying and implementing the optimal cloud storage solution, DAM OPS Consulting is readily available to help. Their expertise can guide your organization toward the best-suited solution for your specific requirements. To learn more, visit www.damopsconsulting.com and get started on your journey to improved efficiency and success in managing your work-in-progress creative files.