SaaS (Software as a Service) is a software distribution model in which an external provider hosts different apps and makes these available to users via the internet. SaaS is one of the three key types of cloud computing, together with infrastructure as a service (IaaS) and platform as a service (PaaS). SaaS is a substitute for the standard software installation in the business setting where a user has the server for building, installing the app, and configuring it. In SaaS, the user doesn’t pay for the software itself. Instead, it works like a rental. They have the authorization to use it for a while and pay for the software that they’re using.
Here are the top five ways, SaaS technology is supports businesses.
Different from the traditional model, SaaS software (applications) can quickly configured and installed. Cloud computing allows this technology to be rolled out seamlessly. Ingram Cloud states, “Under the SaaS delivery model, users no longer need to install and run applications on individual computers or in their data centers, reducing fees for both hardware and software maintenance.” This results in less time being spent in installation and configuration, which also decreases the problems that can get in the way of the software deployment.
SaaS can offer notable savings for numerous reasons. Foremost, it removes the upfront price of purchase or installation, as well as on-going costs such as maintenance and upgrades. Rather than spending huge amounts of money on hardware installations, SaaS applications can be simply downloaded and maintained. Furthermore, pay as you go models let businesses pay for what they’re using and not pay heavily on un-used licensing. SaaS is beneficial for small businesses because it gives access to expensive, high powered software that can are otherwise unobtainable through conventional purchasing methods. Also, the subscription-based method removes the extreme financial risk of costly software.
SaaS solutions reside in the cloud atmosphere that has integration with other SaaS offerings. Comparing with the traditional model, users don’t have to purchase another server or software. Bright Talk suggests, “One of the most unique and critical features of Cloud is it’s “Elasticity”. The very nature of SaaS applications being delivered over cloud (internet) enforces a natural requirement for these applications to be elastic as well in order to leverage the cloud benefits.” From 3PL WMS (warehouse management systems), sales systems to document signing applications, SaaS models are user friendly and easier to scale due to the power of cloud computing.
SaaS providers upgrade the solution and it becomes available for their consumers. Cost and effort related to upgrades are lower than the usual model that compels the user to buy an upgrade package, install and pay for services to get the setting upgraded.
Flexibility is one of the most essential aspects for any business to complete at the high-level market. Businesses that are flexible with their plan, culture, and business model always carry a competitive benefit. The approach towards new applications, system up-gradation, added features, and added users define a business’s flexibility. SaaS gives a seamless opportunity of simple new user addition, feature, and a new customized business solution. As the backend and infrastructure are tackled by the service provider. SaaS applications scale simply for both businesses and users alike.