SAAS - Deployment Methodology

As globalization increases, so too does the need for remotely accessible systems and the ability to accomplish tasks on-the-go. SaaS stands as an enabling technology in a world where businesses continue to decentralize their systems and become more transactional in nature. These pressures combined have created a sudden push for systems that are quick to deploy, low-maintenance and easily accessible. After years of being merely a buzz term, SaaS (Software as a Service), has long since become a viable option as a software solution. As with most cutting edge technologies, SaaS threatens to change the competitive landscape of software systems. It is important for business owners to keep up to speed with changes in these systems that they rely on for their continued operations.

 

Traditionally business software has been hosted in the client’s business – typically referred to as "in-house" or "on-premises" – on a client-owned server. The software is then integrated with the client’s current software and various systems to allow for the flow of information from one system to another. SaaS, however, is different. SaaS is an acronym for Software-as-a-Service and is used to describe a relatively new means of accessing software applications. The name is derived from the nature of the deployment method in which a host organization allows clients access to its software as a service. Despite being around for more than 10 years, SaaS is seen as a relatively new technology in the business environment which has exploded in popularity in recent years. With SaaS, the software is no longer installed locally; it is instead hosted by the service organization/software provider. This means that the client organization need not install or run a server. Instead, information is sent through an interface to the host organization where it is processed by host-run software and sent back.

Advantages:

• No large upfront cash outlay
• Infrastructure costs pushed to provider
• No more worrying about backups
• Painless upgrades
• Increases access to expert support (in lieu of an IT department)
• Remotely accessible
• Improved security and reliability
• Possibly increased uptime
• Immediate or quick access to a broad range of applications