Many midsize companies are still hesitant to use cloud services, even though SaaS solutions offer fast, secure, and scalable advantages. Large enterprises are setting the example and showing how small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) can implement cloud technologies in a practical and secure way.
Cloud technologies are considered enablers of digital transformation, scalability, and innovation. While corporations like Deutsche Börse have long embraced a cloud-first approach, many midsize companies remain cautious. Yet it’s precisely the cloud, and especially Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), that offers great potential to build future-ready IT structures with limited resources. This article outlines the current state of cloud adoption in the midsize segment, offers orientation through practical examples, and explains how you can use the cloud pragmatically, securely, and profitably.
According to recent data from Germany’s Federal Statistical Office, 86% of large companies in Germany are using cloud services, while only about 65% of midsize companies do – and just around 51% of small businesses.
(Source: CIO.de)
A 2024 Bitkom study adds: 81% of companies with 20 or more employees are already using cloud computing – but often only in limited areas or as pilot projects. The most common use cases include email, data storage, and collaboration; ERP systems, business intelligence, or industry-specific core systems are used less frequently in the cloud.
61% of companies surveyed see the cloud as a lever for digitalizing internal processes. That shows: the potential is recognized – but far from fully utilized.
(Source: Bitkom e. V., Cloud-Studie 2025)
These hurdles are understandable – but not insurmountable. The key is a clear plan, not just following the latest tech trends.
The Deutsche Börse Group demonstrates that cloud adoption can succeed even in sensitive, regulated industries – through specific projects that SMBs can also implement:
1. Over 50% of workloads in the cloud
By 2024, more than half of the company’s applications were running in cloud environments – including SAP S/4HANA.
→ Key takeaway: Migration doesn’t happen all at once – it’s an iterative process. Start with pilots, evaluate, and expand.
(Source: CIO.de)
2. Long-term partnership with Google cloud
The company works strategically with Google Cloud – for example, in developing modern data platforms and analytics environments.
→ Key takeaway: Rely on strong partnerships that provide long-term technological stability and expertise.
(Source: Deutsche-Börse.com)
3. Cloud-native innovation
Example: A trading engine and platform for digital assets – developed directly for the cloud, with 24/7 operation and API access.
→ Key takeaway: Don’t use the cloud just to increase efficiency or cut costs – use it to create new business models.
(Source: Google Cloud Blog)
SaaS solutions offer a particularly practical entry point into cloud usage – with high value and manageable effort:
Tools like Microsoft 365, Salesforce, or specialized solutions such as empower® show how SaaS simplifies everyday digital workflows – through template management, more efficient presentations, or collaborative work.
Tip: Focus on business areas that can benefit quickly, such as marketing, sales, finance, or IT operations.
Cloud technologies, especially Saas, offer midsize businesses enormous opportunities in productivity, security, and digital business models. Those who take the challenges seriously, without using them as an excuse, can move forward strategically.
What matters most: Don’t do everything at once. Start small, focus on users, and work toward a clear goal. That way, the cloud doesn’t become overwhelming – it becomes a strategic advantage.
Our expert team supports both large enterprises and midsize companies in modernizing office processes in the Microsoft 365 environment. With SaaS solutions like empower®, your cloud adoption becomes practical and secure – with measurable benefits for IT, departments, and end users.
Take the next step and contact us!