As we wrap up 2019, it's clear that companies are no longer limited to brick-and-mortar locations. More people are moving their business to the Cloud, creating a Software as a Service (SaaS) model to market and sell their products. And, these SaaS companies can attest to its benefits, including improved speed and flexibility when distributing and completing tasks.
But, these are only a few advantages that a SaaS model can bring to your business. And while it may seem like a sizeable investment, adding a cloud-based service can significantly improve your customers' experience.
So, if you're considering adopting SaaS, take a look at some practical ways this digital model can elevate your business.
10 Benefits of SaaS
1. SaaS has a low installation cost.
One big benefit of adopting SaaS is that its cost of implementation will not hurt your capital. There are several free apps you can install such as Google Apps, WeTransfer, and Dropbox, which can help you set up a SaaS structure.
Should you need more features, these programs also offer premium rates that unlock additional tools and reports. And, the cost will still not be as expensive as installing individual software in each of your business devices.
Another option is to sign up for a subscription plan, which will help you save on budget. Many SaaS providers offer a regular subscription plan and some will allow you to adopt one that's personalized to your business's specific needs. While these are more expensive than the generic, free tools, the option to customize your plan helps you save on features that may not be relevant to your business.
Finally, since SaaS saves data on the Cloud, this will cut down costs on supplies like paper, physical storage, maintenance, and printing. These things add up, so be sure to consider these savings when discussing a switch to SaaS.
2. SaaS is easily integrated with business systems.
Unlike traditional software, SaaS apps are relatively easy to integrate into your current systems. Most apps don't need to be installed nor do they require high-end specifications. To work, all that your business needs is a web browser and a stable Internet connection.
Additionally, for most people, SaaS apps are relatively easy to use. But, if you're worried your team may struggle, there are plenty of free online resources that can teach them how to operate your app.
3. SaaS apps are compatible across multiple devices.
Imagine working on a file with your laptop then being able to transfer or access that file on another device. With the demand for mobility on the rise, more B2B SaaS business models are using devices that can be used anywhere.
This is how SaaS can benefit your business because these apps are compatible across multiple devices. This is good for a website's rank and ecommerce search engine optimization (SEO) because of Google's mobile-first and SEO algorithm.
4. SaaS apps remove data silos.
Jumping off from the previous point, employees and/or business owners can use SaaS apps from practically anywhere. This means they can work anytime or any location, so long as they are connected to the Internet.
With SaaS apps, data and files are stored in a central database which can be securely accessed by team members any time they need it. This removes costly data silos that slow functions and creates friction within your business.
5. SaaS fosters team collaboration.
A wonderful thing about SaaS products is that they allow internal teams to collaborate with one another, which is great for companies that are offering ecommerce SEO or other technical services.
Using a SaaS app, team members can leave each other comments, update items, upload files, and assign tasks to help accomplish their goals--all without having to intrude on each other's work.
6. SaaS offers data security.
Which is more secure? On-site software or SaaS applications?
According to GoWhiteOwl, businesses that don't have an I.T. department or don't invest in an anti-virus software leave their systems vulnerable to attack. On the other hand, cloud-computing companies constantly deploy security updates to protect customer data, which makes devices and systems safer to use and store data in.
This means that while your SaaS app is easily integrated into your business, it doesn't provide any additional security risks to your data. Since a third-party company is operating and updating the app, you don't have to run routine maintenance checks to ensure your information is secure.
7. SaaS platforms update automatically.
It's no secret that technology develops rapidly, and this puts pressure on your team to keep up with industry demand. Fortunately, SaaS apps are automatically updated, which keeps them compatible with the latest devices and running smoothly for your employees. You don't have to take downtime to reinstall your software and can continue your normal workflow as the application updates on its own.
8. SaaS apps are onboarded quickly.
When it comes to migrating systems, speed is essential. You wouldn't want your employees lounging around just because your I.T. team is busy installing software on their computers and devices.
SaaS is an out-of-the-box solution. And, since most SaaS apps don't need to be installed, the speed of deployment is impeccably fast. You and your employees can instantly use the system the moment you go online.
9. SaaS apps are scalable.
Worried about the limited features of your free SaaS apps? Don't be. SaaS apps are scalable to suit your business needs.
For a relatively small cost, you can expand your data storage, increase your number of users, and gain access to premium features and tools. This gives you the option to grow your software as you continue to expand your business and customer base.
10. SaaS features are maintained frequently.
SaaS apps undergo frequent updates to maximize security and remove bugs. These updates make these products more user-friendly, provide better features, and protect your organization's data.
Overall, SaaS can have a powerful impact on your business's digital transformation. It's an out-of-the-box solution that offers countless benefits for a fraction of the cost. If you're thinking of migrating to SaaS, this cloud adoption strategy will surely do wonders for your business.
For more information on this business model, read about these SaaS metrics.