What is Software as a Service?
Software as a Service (SaaS) is a software distribution model in which a service provider hosts applications for customers and makes them available to them via internet. It is an alternative to the standard software installation (traditional model) where a user has to build the server, install the application and configure it.
In SaaS, the user does not pay for the software itself. Instead, it works like a rental. Customers have the authorization to use it for a period of time and pay for the software that they are using.
Advantages of using SaaS systems:
You can save money
SaaS applications do not require a large infrastructure. Therefore, the acquisition can drastically reduce the upfront commitment of resources. Sometimes, it is only required for a limited period. SaaS is generally subscription-based and has no initial license fees, which can also help your company to save money.
Also, you only pay for what you are using! This service allows you to raise or reduce its’ resources depending on how much you use it.
Upgrades and customizations
Upgrades are done by your cloud service provider, which ensures you are getting the latest version of the software without reimplementing any of your preset features. When using a cloud system, your customizations are always portable to future versions.
Personalization
Most software packages are easy to use and customizable for consumers. You can also change the software according to the needs of your business easily. Generally, on demand softwares allow adjustment to adapt them to what customers want.
Ease of management
SaaS applications are managed by the SaaS hoster. You can use a cloud-based system across multiple regions, subsidiaries, and divisions without requiring any additional hardware which means you don’t have to waste time installing IT infrastructure and VPN access across multiple sites.
Maintenance
No hardware maintenance or repairs are required. Cloud services offer multiple backups in case you need to change something or correct a mistake. Data backup is also taken care of by the data centers.
Accessibility
All you need to access a SaaS application is a browser and Internet connection. It is usually available on a wide range of devices and anywhere in the world, which makes SaaS more accessible than traditional enterprise software installations.
Also, the SaaS application is already installed in the cloud, which speeds up the process, since you only need to register in the SaaS solution and do other small configuration.
Space
If a company uses a cloud service, they won’t need extra physical space for servers, hardware or the in-house IT team. Additionally, security needs can be prearranged with the vendor.
Scalability
SaaS providers offer many subscription options and flexibility to change plans when necessary, for example, when your business grows or when more users need access to the service.
SaaS is one of the three main categories of cloud computing, alongside with Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) and Platform as a Service (PaaS), where instead of downloading a software in your desktop PC or business network to execute and update, you access an application via an internet browser.
Many companies are moving to cloud solutions like Software as a Service, looking for flexibility, speed and security features for their business. Are you ready to make the switch?
Join DataScope now for free!
DataScope is a platform which allows various industries to streamline, organize and evaluate the work of their field staff. Its’ online forms provide real time indicators, 100% adaptable to any field.
