Talking SaaS: Software as a Service explained

Businesses today have a huge variety of tools to work with when it comes to technology. Computing hardware, data storage, server space, compatibility updates–it can all spin your head a bit. 

Development environments can be streamlined for productivity and cost-effectiveness with the use of SaaS: software as a service.

What is SaaS?

SaaS refers to applications & programs provided to users over the Internet, and are maintained on the provider’s own servers. Developers don’t have to physically host the software they use on premises.  

Multi-tenant architecture is the defining feature of SaaS: each user accesses the same pool of resources–the hosted environment–and has their own dedicated space where they can securely store their company’s work data.

SaaS brings the powerful & intuitive technology you need to work effectively with your team, and bring your visions to life.

Traditional software delivery models involve an upfront cost of purchasing a physical copy of an application or program, or buying a license to be able to run a single instance of a program. In the SaaS model, users pay a recurring subscription and access their software over the Internet, or with an application programming interface (API.)

Examples of SaaS

You’ve probably heard of one or even all of the services below, since they’re some of the most widely used software services available.

Popular SaaS models include:

• Office365
• Email clients (ex: Gmail)
• WordPress
• Adobe Creative Cloud

Why should I use SaaS?

Switching to the SaaS model comes with a number of great benefits.

• Startup speed: simply sign up for a user account and immediately begin using powerful programs.
• Low cost: no overhead for IT maintenance, physical server space, hardware installation, etc.
• Technical support from the provider is included in your subscription cost.
• Scalability: SaaS providers will increase computing power or add more data storage as your development & testing needs evolve.
• Ease of access: since programs & applications are securely stored in the cloud, it’s much easier for users to transfer data across multiple devices or access their work remotely.
• Automatic updates: no need to spend time implementing patches or working through compatibility issues, since the entire software package is regularly updated by the provider.