What is SaaS software?

The SaaS service

The SaaS (Software as a Service) is a software distribution model available through the cloud. Applications are provided as turnkey services that users access through a web browser.

Cloud computing offers many advantages to companies and especially the SaaS model. It offers them the possibility to relocate their hardware, their data and their applications on servers in specific spaces called datacenters. By outsourcing these tasks to a service provider, they save space in their offices. Thus, companies no longer need to store servers. They also save time since the architecture and data storage are handled by the provider. The SaaS service reduces upfront costs by eliminating the need to purchase software and invest in a robust on-site IT infrastructure, as is the case with traditional software. Companies still need to invest in quality network hardware, as part of the performance of the SaaS software depends on the Internet speed..

Another fundamental point that gives the SaaS service its full meaning is that the data stored can be accessed from anywhere by the people who are authorized to access it. An essential point in the context of collaborative work.

There are other cloud computing services not to confused with SaaS :

• IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service): the operating system and applications are installed by customers on servers to which they connect to work as if it were a traditional computer.
• PaaS (Platform as a Service): the cloud service provider administers the operating system and its tools. The customer can install his own applications, if he feels the need.

By using the SaaS mode, the company will not be required to host its applications and even less to internally store its data. In this context, the company no longer needs to acquire and manages servers in order to host them.

What are the main advantages of a SaaS service?

For a company, the advantages of setting up a SaaS are numerous. First of all, it allows structures to make significant savings. Indeed, users no longer need to install software on their computer, all data is saved and stored on an external space. Moreover, with a subscription model, costs are much lower. Companies can rent the software they need with a subscription system and thus do not pay for the infrastructure to host these applications.

On the other hand, the SaaS service allows the automation of some complex update processes. With simplicity and security, the software is regularly updated. The SaaS software is hosted on a centralized and secure server. It is upgraded on multiple computers automatically and often faster than traditional software. SaaS updates allow users to access the latest features as soon as they are released. The software itself can be installed or used at any time. All you need is access to an Internet connection and a digital work tool (a computer or a laptop).

Speed is also a relevant advantage for this type of model. Because SaaS services do not require hardware, they can be quickly deployed. This allows users to access applications much faster, which can increase productivity and employee satisfaction.

Finally, the level of security offered by the SaaS mode is higher than that internaly deployed.

The SaaS model, for all types of industries

On a daily basis, many users are using SaaS-based tools regardless of their industry. For example, accounting software is used by companies to manage and organize billing, budgeting and time tracking functions.

In the communication and marketing sector, customer relationship management (CRM) software is often used. This allows to organize and manage mainly customer data.

Finally, software specialized in project management also works in the same way. Allowing to manage the workflow (task organization and project progress monitoring), but also to discuss with team members, this kind of software is widely used today by companies.

SaaS with Astn’go

All these types of software are not the only ones to evolve in SaaS format. Indeed, Astrée Software has decided to create the very first MES solution marketed in SaaS mode in France with Astn’go. A unique and quick to set up offer, to discover by clicking here.