SAAS refers to the new and modern ways of accessing software as opposed to the traditional model. In the earlier days software was literally purchased and installed into the computer. However, with the evolution of SAAS software can be purchased in a subscription-based model where the software is hosted in the cloud and it is accessed via the internet.
SAAS is often referred to as software on demand and utilizing is akin to renting the software instead of purchasing it. Usually, Software as a Service is done on a monthly basis. The customers who subscribe to the application or service have to pay a certain amount every month to avail the service.
What are the main advantages of SAAS?
The main advantages of SAAS are as follows
1. Zero Hardware Cost
The processing power to use the software is provided by the cloud provider. The cloud provider has the essential hardware to process the software remotely. Therefore, there is no absolutely any need for sophisticated hardware on the user side. In most cases, the software’s are located in big servers. Some of the most popular services like Office 365, Amazon Cloud, Salesforce are SAAS services.
2. Zero Setup Cost
The applications are ready to use when the user subscribes. The user do not have to set up the application because the application will run in the cloud.
3. Only Pay For The Amount Of Time Used
One of the advantages of the SAAS service is that the applications can be halted at any time. If the user feels the need to subscribe again he/she is free to do so at an additional charge. In most cases I prefer subscription model that charges monthly. However, there are many SAAS services that charge on a yearly subscription model.
4. Scalability
Another important feature of SAAS is scalability. If the user decides he or she needs more storage or more space SAAS allows for scalability. This feature allows for smooth scalability as an when the need arises.
5. Updates Are Automated
Whenever there is an update the user will be notified online and the user can easily update the software. Often updates are free of charge.
6. Cross-Device Accessibility
As the software runs in the cloud there is cross-device compatibility. The software can be accessed easily from any device like a computer, laptop, tablet, or a mobile phone. Thus the user need not worry about accessing the software from any device.
7. Location Independent
SAAS allows for location independent access of the software. The SAAS provider may be a different country and the user may be located in another country.
8. Requires Only Internet Connection
If the user has an internet connection the user should be able to access SAAS. Speedy internet connections are often preferred for SAAS as the cloud service provider may be located in an entirely different geographic location.
Some examples where SAASÂ is used.
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Accounting
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Tracking Sales
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Planning
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Performance Monitoring
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Communications
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Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
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Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
The evolution of SAAS has changed the entire landscape of the software industry. It has open doors for small business to access large software’s which were not possible earlier. The future of SAAS seems promising.