What is Software as a Service?

What is Software as a service (SaaS)?

Software as a Service or (SaaS) is the provision of software, and it’s associated licensing via an online subscription rather than a traditional outright software purchase.

SaaS is also a model in which third party providers host applications in the cloud so that they become accessible to end-users over the Internet. SaaS is one of the three primary cloud computing technologies along with Platform as a Service (PaaS) and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS).

Common examples include Outlook, Dropbox and DocuSign.

Advantages of SaaS:

1. Accessibility

With software hosted on the Internet, it becomes accessible from any location so long as an Internet connection is available. There is no requirement for a VPN to connect to the office network when applications are hosted in the cloud. Applications in the cloud are also designed with multi-platform support in mind, meaning they become accessible to most devices.

2. Security

Due to the centralised hosting of SaaS-based applications, the vendor can deliver patches and updates without disrupting the end-user device. Updates can be applied quickly and efficiently, keeping the applications protected.

3. Hardware

One of the significant benefits of using SaaS is the reduction in hardware costs. Due to the applications being hosted in a 3rd party Hosting facility, there are no initial costs for provisioning hardware or network infrastructure.

4. Scalability

SaaS allows you to amend the subscribed user count as required and subsequently adjust billing plans accordingly.

5. Analytics and Business Intelligence

Due to the centralised storage of application data in a SaaS environment, it usually is relatively simple to gain access to the data for reporting purposes. SAAs service providers often provide reporting and Business intelligence tools, specifically for this reason.

Find out more about what’s capable for your business with Microsoft’s intelligent business reporting tool, Power BI.

In summary, SaaS offers some real advantages over traditional on-premise hosting.

For more information arrange an appointment with one of our consultants. Or find out more about our hosting services here.