We`ve Got SaaS - Pros and Cons
(Page 2 of 4 )
You've probably noticed that I've already inadvertently listed some of the pros of SaaS, at least the obvious ones. The cost and ease of implementing the software along with the no-hassle repair and maintenance are just a few. But starting now I'm going to go over some of the widely seen disadvantages and from there, there's an obvious comparison to be made.
First of all, using an SaaS provider means that you're relying on somebody else when it comes to your data. Whatever happens to them inherently happens to you. And because these are businesses, don't be shocked if they should fall prey to the effects of the market. Or perhaps someone within the company might commit a major screw-up intentionally or otherwise that could cause all of your data to be lost.
That's why it is vital, when using SaaS for your business, to select a provider that you trust. It's possible to lose much more if something were to go wrong with an SaaS provider than with a traditional licensed software vendor. Oh, and I almost forgot about Internet connectivity. It may seem like a minor issue now, but if you own a business and can't get access to your information because your Internet connection is down, all of a sudden something minor is top priority.
As for the provider, SaaS presents some detriments for them as well. When starting off, a provider has very little money to get the ball rolling. Traditionally, a company might get a lump sum up front, which makes it a lot easier in terms of employee compensation and whatnot until they start collecting money. Also, because SaaS is a relatively new phenomenon, developing a new SaaS application can be a lot trickier than developing traditional software. So if business starts booming right away, you could find yourself backed up considerably due to having to scale up for more customers. After all, it's all about the customers and because SaaS is web-based, they will be expecting the latest and greatest faster than if they were using traditional software.
Of course, it's not all bad news. The benefits of this breakthrough technology far outweigh the drawbacks, which will probably be fixed sooner than later anyhow. SaaS makes everything smaller, faster, easier, and more convenient. For the most part, it also eliminates the third party middle man and allows IT personnel to focus primarily on day-to-day priorities, giving both the consumer and provider the ability to harness the most out of what it has to offer. And for the provider, business becomes a lot more streamlined in that customer payment is done through subscription. They can also count on retaining business as the company upgrades (just like wanting to get the next issue) while at the same time keeping the cost low for the customer.
Before you start making comparisons, I'm going to inform you a bit about some of the latest news on the SaaS front. Then you can decide whether to be a cautious conservative and forgo using SaaS, or a liberal loon and take it all in at once.
Next: What's Happening Now? >>
More Web Hosting Articles Articles
More By Michael Lowry
