Cloud-based office solutions are generating a lot of media attention.

Driving its growth, according to research firm IDC, are the expanding “species” of mobile devices, the explosion of mobile applications and Big Data tools, and the increasing availability of wireless broadband.

IDC stated that worldwide spending on IT public cloud services was estimated to be more than $40 billion in 2012 and is expected to approach $100 billion in 2016. During the 2012-2016 forecast period, expects public IT cloud services to enjoy 26.4% compound annual growth (CAGR), five times more than the overall IT industry, as companies build the infrastructure needed to deliver public cloud services .

By 2015, one in every seven dollars spent on software packages, servers and storage offerings will be through the public cloud model.

Many companies are joining the plunge into cloud services, including Apple, which just introduced iWork for iCloud, an app now in beta testing. The developers seem to be satisfied with iWork in the first tests. It will be released for use by the general public later this year.

iWork is Apple’s answer to Google Docs and Google Drive. The goal of using cloud technology is to allow users to create, edit, and save documents, spreadsheets, and slideshows on a variety of devices, whether it’s a MAC, iPad, or iPhone.

This solution is similar to other cloud-based applications that only require a web browser interface and internet connection to use.

Overall, these applications go a long way in driving the concept of collaboration, improved workflow, and idea sharing between office and remote staff.

For example, a salesperson traveling for appointments can use their laptop to download a new corporate slideshow. Eliminating the need to have the correct software installed on the device, the seller can edit the presentation through their web browser. They can personalize it with a prospective client’s name and add other key information relevant to the client’s needs.

The presentation can then be saved to share in real time with a manager or co-worker who can make additional changes or suggestions. Once completed, the presentation can be printed if possible and/or sent electronically to the prospective client.

Also, management and staff can share the calendar. Appointments can be set up and scheduled without the constant stream of emails and phone calls.

As Apple pointed out during its iWork presentation, cloud-based applications are also available to create spreadsheets using various templates to help speed up the documentation creation process. In the case of the MAC user face, you can also download Microsoft Word documents and edit them as well.

Other companies like Salesforce, Oracle and Netsuite are pushing their applications into the cloud.

While moving to the cloud makes sense for most businesses and can certainly increase overall business capabilities, businesses should do a deep analysis of their needs and operations before signing up for a host of these applications.

In fact, those thinking of removing desktop software from their office altogether should wait until they’re comfortably rooted in the cloud.

A mix of desktop and cloud applications makes the most sense for businesses that want to take advantage of the latest technologies and opportunities that the cloud has to offer.