Way ahead of simple cloud storage services,Box will improve the productivity of Japanese companies

Among the myriad of cloud storage services available, "Box" is the latest cloud-based online collaboration tool, which satisfies the needs of companies of any scale, and offers advanced security and many functions useful for enterprises.
"'Box' is different from simple cloud storage services. Its most distinctive feature is the provision of workspaces to edit or modify files safely from anywhere and any device, and thus it goes far beyond file synchronization and sharing. 'Collaboration,' 'mobility' and 'platform' are the key words to 'Box,'" said Mr. Katsunori Furuichi, president and representative director of Box Japan.

Cloud file sharing always involves security issues. In this regard, "Box" not only encodes the contents to be uploaded to the cloud, but also records the entire history of what has been done by whom regarding the relevant contents. Moreover, it allows 7-level access control according to user type, allowing what files they can access or what they can do to them to be restricted. Users with the lowest level of permission can only upload files, and it is impossible for them to browse other files or know the number of updated files. It therefore can be used in the recruiting process or for bidding.

"Box" has already been used by more than 220,000 enterprises around the world, including P&G and Toyota U.S.A. It is also becoming a common tool among enter-prises that require the handling of large files such as construction companies and the media or those that deal with personal information such as financial institutions and hospitals. President Furuichi emphasizes that the key factor here is the usability of the services. "Generally speaking, higher security means less convenience, but 'Box' is excellent in both."

In addition to good compatibility with software used by companies such as ERP, the more than 1,000 OneCloud compatible apps can also be used. The line-up of available applications is diverse, including an app for the visual improvement of presentations or one for attaching e-signatures to files.

Domestically, Box Japan has already started operations with three sales partners, but finding partners for the development of apps and systems is also urgent. With this issue in mind, President Furuichi has chosen Marunouchi, with its concentration of major corporations. He also highly appreciates EGG JAPAN because the service his company receives is not just the provision of office space; it includes support for penetrating the Japanese market.

"Domestic markets are already saturated and substantial growth cannot be expected. Against such a backdrop, productivity improvement is required for Japanese companies more than ever. One of the means to achieve this is through IT. Responding to such a need, 'Box' will support Japanese companies," stated President Furuichi. With enthusiasm, he talked about his plans. The first step is to gain recognition of "Box" from Japanese companies, while modifying it to a more suitable form for Japanese users in cooperation with development partners.