| By :
Dirik Hameed
SaaS, or software as a service, is the hosting and delivery of software applications to clients via an internet browser. It is the new method for delivery to most business applications such as enterprise resource planning, human resource management, accounting and invoicing to mention a few. It contrasts with "on premises" software because the software is loaded on a computer located outside the company's jurisdiction and accessed by special client protocols. There are numerous advantages to using SaaS providers. Let us discuss some main factors to note when choosing SaaS IT Management Services. The client has the option of asking for hosting for third party data protection software or software designed by the SaaS themselves. Either one shows some of the versatility of using 'Software as a service' providers. It's ease of use is another reason for the prevalence of SaaS. All that's required from the client is an internet browser and a signing of the contacts to enable access on their servers. All the complex technical and maintenance issues are dealt with by the SaaS so the client does not need to worry about such issues. The initial setup cost for such an arrangement is lower because there is no upfront license fee, module fees or even ongoing support. The provider normally charges one subscription fee which can be paid monthly or annually. Arrangement can be made for a per usage fee, based on the number of users generally. A new trend for some providers is to allow users free access within a limited arrangement but then they derive revenue by advertising. This system can accommodate a large number of tenants. It does so, by giving access to a single configuration of the software stored on multiple computers. This model perfectly lends itself to access to testing of its beta configuration because all it does is load that version on separate computers and give access to these users. When all things are considered, this works out better for the client because it removes all the complicated licensing and modular fee structure that would be needed in the case of "on the premises" configurations. For instances when the provider hosts software it designs for its clients, it offers a certain amount of personal customization. This gives an individual tenant the option of selecting from predefined configuration settings those features which appeal to his/her personal tastes and needs. SaaS's normally offer frequent updates for the software it designs and maintains. These updates are relatively easy to do because the SaaS is working on a single configuration, has all the customers' data and can be done without any input from the customers. This means that software updates may be done as regularly as on a weekly basis. Users of the project management software is given privileges to share information and comments and work on documents simultaneously. These are important prerequisites for any project management installation due to the amount of collaboration that is required. The sharing of data in this manner can be done in an environment secured by the SaaS's firewall. As more and more companies continue to look for more ways to cut administrative costs, 'Software as a service' will occupy an even greater part of the software landscape. There is even a projection that the 'Software as a service' market will grow to 21 billion by 2015.
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