The cloud. Everyone knows of the cloud by now because it is everywhere. Dropbox, iCloud, and Google Drive are all cloud-based storage areas. So then what is SaaS and what does it have to do with Dropbox? Software as a service (SaaS), exists, in part, in “the cloud” and is well-known in the world of business. If you aren’t adopting SaaS into your business yet, you’re probably behind your competition.
The Difference Between Cloud and SaaS
The two might sound similar, but they’re not. The cloud often refers to any data that is stored remotely and delivered by the internet. SaaS is a remote software delivery method that uses an online subscription. It utilizes cloud technology to distribute licensing and updates in addition to storing important files. Gone are the days of buying a disk in a store.
SaaS is in the Cloud
SaaS is essentially software in the cloud, not just data. Think of it like a newspaper subscription. Your paper keeps you updated and belongs to you, but the paperboy delivers it. You never see the paperboy or have to feed him, yet your paper always arrives. The newspaper is your software, and the paperboy is the SaaS platform.
Ultimately, SaaS and other cloud-based applications allow you a host of freedom and security. For example, you’re able to access licensing and stored data from any computer. Let’s get into some more detail below.
What is SaaS?
According to Software Advice:
“SaaS is a method of software delivery that allows data to be accessed from any device with an Internet connection and web browser. In this web-based model, software vendors host and maintain the servers, databases and code that constitute an application. This is a significant departure from the on-premise software delivery model. First, companies don’t have to invest in extensive hardware to host the software, and this in turn, allows buyers to outsource most of the IT responsibilities typically required to troubleshoot and maintain the software. The SaaS vendor takes care of it all.”
In other words, you’re no longer worrying about your data, software server maintenance, or tedious updates that create downtime. These systems save your entire team time and money.
8 Benefits of Moving to SaaS in 2019
If you haven’t adopted SaaS yet, there are several reasons to take the first step. Here are just a few examples of the benefits of moving to SaaS in 2019.
1) Cloud Collaboration in New Wave Work Environments
Decentralized offices with teams of remote workers make it hard for everyone to be on the same page. With SaaS, centrally stored files make for simple and secure collaboration. Also, since everyone uses the most recent update and version of the software, learning and training are easier.
2) The Difficulty Of Legacy Systems
Legacy systems are tougher to use since not much changes or updates for fear of ruining the customer experience. It’s sometimes challenging to link a legacy system to present-day third-party apps like CRM, webhooks, and analytics.
One of the most significant drawbacks is the legacy system’s lack of mobility. Housing the critical applications in the company’s own data center equals more maintenance and less versatility. Whereas, with SaaS, every aspect is mobile since you only need an internet connection.
3) SaaS Frees Up Computing Resources
When storing everything on local computers, you need a lot of hard drive space and computer resources. SaaS-based products allow freedom of the cloud, taking the brunt of the work. With virtual environments like Amazon Web Services, even RAM and processor power get a boost. Furthermore, some mobile phone applications take charge in this space, letting you leave the laptop at home altogether.
4) Save Money With The Cloud
The goal of any company is to increase revenue and lower costs. SaaS cuts down on a lot of overhead costs. When it comes to the initial investment, cloud-based and SaaS options tend to cost less than an on-site system. This savings is easy to see when you assess the cost of servers, workstations, and an IT team to keep it all running. With SaaS, this is all off-site and maintained by the software company.
5) Remote Hands Free Maintenance
The maintenance of a SaaS system is more straightforward than on-site systems. No waiting until after hours to run system updates and push software to workstations. No troubleshooting the updates when they don’t correctly roll out. There isn’t lengthy downtime, there are no server repairs, and no more lost data from a failed hard drive. The SaaS platform even handles data backups off-site. Virtually all the maintenance is automated.
6) Open Up Physical Space
In the past, companies had entire rooms for their servers and break-fix bays. Add in space for wiring, ventilation, and anything else that supported the equipment and space disappears fast. With cloud computing and SaaS technology, most of this is off-site. In other words, your company can run with less physical square footage.
7) Quick & Easy Upgrades
As noted prior, all of the upgrades, backups, and customization is done through your SaaS provider. This format means no more outdated software versions and no buying a new disk and license.
8) Improved Time Management
Everything above clearly saves you and your team time. The more you adopt SaaS, the easier all these things should be moving forward.
Implementing SaaS for the Future
Let’s face it SaaS is the wave of the future. Don’t let your business fall behind and get stuck in a legacy loop. SaaS technology does so much for a company. Be it peace of mind that your data is always backed up or not dealing with unnecessary downtime – this software format has many advantages, including lower operating costs.
