Understanding Cloud & SaaS
6th August 2015
If you don’t already know what cloud technology is then don’t worry, you’re not on your own.
Cloud computing allows you to access and store data & programs over the internet instead of using your computer’s hard drive. All you need is an internet connection and cloud computing can be done from anywhere in the world.
What is Software- as-a-Service (SaaS)?
Software-as-a-Service is cloud based software that is accessible over the internet. This works by the user subscribing in order to get access and usually paying a monthly or annual fee.
You may already be using SaaS and not even realising it. Take a look at these examples of where it is being used:
- Google Drive. This is a cloud computing service because all the apps and storage are online. You can use them from your smartphone or tablet at any time of the day.
- Another example is Apple iCloud. This software connects you and your Apple devices together and synchronizes your mail, contacts and more. It is also used to store media files so that they can be accessed from any Apple device.
Benefits of SaaS for SME’s
SaaS allows SME’s to access software and technical support at a more affordable level. The software is licensed on a subscription basis as opposed to purchasing individual licenses, therefore there is no up-front cost. You also reduce IT support costs by outsourcing hardware and software maintenance support.
Most importantly you can access your data anytime through your web browser, on your tablet or smartphone.
Benefits of SaaS for large businesses
SaaS is great for large business due to multiple factors that allow for greater speed, efficiency and detail in data storage and management. Scalability and integration are key parts in this. SaaS, such as Clarity Enterprise, integrates with your other software and current business scale and setup so there is no need to buy another server.
With SaaS you’ll always have access to new releases and upgrades that will help your business run smoother. The release of new technology means lower costs associated with upgrades as well as access to top of the line software and hardware, without paying through the nose.
Clarity Enterprise and other SaaS are easy to use, because that’s what they’re designed for – to make your business life easier.
How secure is the cloud?
The cloud is as secure as it gets. Trusted providers like Google, Apple, Amazon and even World Governments use the cloud to store data. All data is protected from cyber-attacks as part of the package, so you don’t have to pay for your own data protection at the same time. Data is protected with top level encryption and guarded with CCTV and round the clock security.
How does it work?
Problems with traditional computer software include the dangers of cyber-attacks against your personal machine whilst you’re not there to action on it, data corruption, loss, damage and lack of high level encryption. Software can become easily outdated meaning you have to invest in upgrades which is an added cost to your organisation.
However, SaaS allows for easy, cheap, often free upgrades when new versions are developed, that don’t add cost to your subscription.
SaaS can be accessed from anywhere on multiple platforms such as laptops, tablets and smartphones, unlike traditional software which only works on designated computers. You can also transfer data instantly and simply with cloud technology, whatever you upload will be available for you to access on any platform.
Backups of industrial amounts of data are costly and time consuming, and time is money in business. The cloud speeds up the processes and allows you to get things done much more quickly and easily.
How does cloud technology benefit your business?
- Real-time overview
- Increased collaboration
- Work from anywhere
- Document control
- Security
- Automatic Backups
- Gain competitive advantage
- Environmentally friendly
Useful links
IBM information on SaaS: https://www.ibm.com/blogs/cloud-computing/2014/03/what-is-software-as-a-service-saas/
Try a free trial of Clarity365: http://www.clarity365.co.uk/Home/
| Written by Chloé FarmerHi I’m Chloé and I am the Marketing and Customer Relationship Manager. I specialise in writing about business, marketing and SEO. I like to crossfit in my spare time. Find me on LinkedIn. |
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