Saas (Software as a Service) can be defined as the “cloud computing model that enables companies to distribute software efficiently and allows consumers to use it easily”.
A software distribution and consumption model in which applications are hosted on a third-party provider’s servers and accessed via the Internet, usually through a browser or app.
Software as a Service allows users to connect to the application from any Internet-connected device instead of having to install the software locally on company servers or computers.
Main features of Saas
The software as a service model presents a series of particularities or characteristics that differentiate it from traditional locally installed software. Let’s see some of them:
- Global access. SaaS has the characteristic that it can be used from any place and device with Internet connection without having to have a local installation.
- Automatic updates. Since software upgrades and updates are the responsibility of the vendor, users are provided with the latest updated version without the need to manually intervene in this process.
- Centralization of maintenance and support. In line with the previous point, the supplier is also in charge of maintenance, support and security tasks.
- Subscription. The fact that payment for this service is made periodically (monthly, yearly or any other periodicity) avoids large economic investments at the beginning.
- Flexibility and scalability. The resources allocated can be increased or reduced depending on the business needs, which means that both the number of users and the contracted functionalities can be adjusted.
- Real time. Being able to collaborate in real time makes it possible to work more closely together so that files can be edited or shared simultaneously. Likewise, data and reports can be made available in real time to help in decision making.
- Cost reduction. Since no proprietary infrastructure, licenses or hardware investment is required, the barrier to entry is low, making it possible for companies of varying sizes to access these services.
Examples of Software as a Service
Some of the examples of SaaS show the diversity of sectors it affects, ranging from business tools to mass consumption platforms and adapting to the needs of both companies and the users themselves.
Let’s take a look at some examples of different categories that use software as a service:
- Communication and collaboration tools. This type is focused on professional uses, such as messaging and collaboration platforms in work environments, videoconferencing and meeting solutions or software packages that include different office automation possibilities in a single installation (known as suites).
- Marketing and automation. All-in-one marketing platforms allow the automation of e-mails or newsletters, with benefits such as the personalization of these mailings. There are also examples related to the management and programming of social networks.
- E-commerce. Online retailers can get marketing, customer acquisition, shipping or payment tools to simplify the management of online stores. From a single location, owners can brand their store, list products or accept payments.
- Product management and productivity. Tools of this style enable task and project management to organize, track or manage tasks or projects more effectively.
- Business management and CRM. Tools with plans and solutions for companies regardless of their size, offering functions such as sales processes, customer service or operations, and there may also be those that include uses linked to marketing or e-mail.
These examples are not watertight compartments, so companies that may be dedicated to offering services from one category may also include some functionalities from others, as we have seen in the last case of the previous list.
