WHAT EXACTLY IS SOFTWARE-AS-A-SERVICE (SaaS)?

Like any industry, IT has developed its own jargon. The world of Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) is one example. SaaS has quickly evolved from an emerging trend to become a staple in the tech landscape. And businesses today increasingly lean on SaaS solutions for their operations.

What is SaaS? And how is it transforming the way businesses operate?

WHAT IS SOFTWARE-AS-A-SERVICE (SaaS)?

SaaS is a way of delivering software applications over the internet instead of locally on machines. Whereas traditionally, businesses purchased software as a product and downloaded it on a device, SaaS enables users to connect to their apps over the internet from anywhere. As the name suggests, SaaS is a subscription service that is purchased on a pay-as-you-go basis. 

These are some of the main advantages of using SaaS.

Cost-Effective

SaaS applications are often more budget-friendly compared to purchasing and maintaining traditional software outright.

With SaaS, businesses have access to powerful cloud service solutions while reducing the capital outlay associated with traditional software procurement. Because the cloud service provider handles hosting the apps—and maintains the underlying infrastructure, hardware, app software and app data—businesses do not need to purchase software licenses and the hardware to run it. With SaaS, businesses are free from maintenance responsibilities, regular upgrades and the expenses that come with it. 

Scalability and Flexibility

The SaaS model offers the flexibility to seamlessly adjust operations to meet changing demands. Whether a business needs to expand or reduce their user base, SaaS allows you to do so without the need for substantial investments. And you only pay for what you use. Businesses also have the freedom to choose the service level that perfectly aligns with business objectives.

Accessibility

SaaS applications offer incredible convenience as users can access them from anywhere with an internet connection and a web browser. SaaS products will allow automatic syncing so multiple users can collaborate on a project in real time even in different locations. This flexibility is especially valuable for remote work setups and businesses that operate from multiple locations. 

WHAT ARE SOFTWARE AS A SERVICE EXAMPLES?

Below are some examples of commonly used SaaS, aka software-as-a-services:

1. Microsoft 365: This suite of productivity tools operates on a subscription basis. It offers a range of applications, such as Word for word processing, Excel for spreadsheets, PowerPoint for presentations, Outlook for email and calendar management, and Teams for communication and collaboration.
2. OneDrive: This cloud storage service enables users to store files online and access them from any device conveniently. Additionally, it syncs files across devices and facilitates easy file sharing with others.
3. Microsoft Azure: Although Azure is widely recognized as a powerful platform for developing and managing applications in Microsoft-managed data centers, it also provides various SaaS applications and services. Examples include Azure AI and Azure Analytics.
4. Microsoft Project: This project management software product supports project managers. It can help with tasks such as developing plans, assigning resources, tracking progress, managing budgets, and analyzing workloads.

WHY BUY SOFTWARE IN THE CLOUD?

In a lot of ways, cloud-hosted options fly in the face of convention. For years, and to some extent today, companies wanted control over their technology. Cloud computing, while useful, often doesn’t give administrative control over the management of the solution. 

On the other hand, getting resources in the cloud is much more convenient, scalable, and provides the same great user experience for the end user.  The main benefits are that: 

• you get the software you need in minutes 
• you can quickly add and remove user accounts 
• you get software without huge capital outlays for hardware and operational outlays for IT support to manage those systems 

While it is true that the support costs are baked into the monthly fee, it makes it easy for an organization to plan out their technology budget as they will have fewer variable costs.

WHAT IS A SOFTWARE-AS-A-SERVICE COMPANY?

SaaS companies develop and maintain software applications, then deliver them to customers through the cloud on a subscription basis.

They offer an extensive selection of software services that cater to diverse business requirements. This can include project management, collaboration tools, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, and analytics platforms. Microsoft stands out with its remarkable products such as Microsoft 365 and Azure. 

Working with a SaaS Provider

Partnering with a SaaS provider directly offers businesses the opportunity to tailor their services precisely to their unique requirements. This allows them to obtain a customized solution that seamlessly aligns with their specific operational needs, resulting in an ideal fit for smooth and efficient business operations. 

To optimize business operations, it may be necessary to seamlessly integrate various SaaS solutions, tailor software features, and establish efficient workflows. These actions can greatly enhance productivity to achieve desired outcomes with ease.

As an experienced SaaS vendor, Ciracom Cloud offers competitive pricing strategies. With over 20 years of buying experience with SaaS companies like Microsoft and Adobe, we can offer better discounts on SaaS solutions. We have processed $21.5 million in SaaS spend for businesses. That’s 1,400 deals with $750,000 in total savings for our customers.

We go above and beyond in our customer service and support. We understand the value of ensuring small and midsize businesses maximize the benefits of their software. From technical assistance to helping with software implementation and training, we provide comprehensive support to guarantee success for our customers.

SO HOW DOES SAAS WORK?

Employing a SaaS platform is as simple as signing up for the service and signing in to the cloud-hosted account. Better yet, when you are getting software for an entire organization, you can get the licenses that you need without having to pay for more versions than necessary. If you need 10, you get 10. If you need 50, you get 50.

Administrators are given some security options such as implementing two-factor authentication. This can give them some customization over the security of their hosted solution. Overall, however, the hosting company provides most of the management options.

Contact Ciracom Cloud today to get the IT experts to help you decide what technology tools are right for your business at (703) 621-3900.