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  SaaS
So what is Software as a Service (SaaS)?
This is the new trend for delivering software in a cost effective manner that has begun to...
  News
Apr 21 2008
2008 NIGP Forum
We're looking forward to another great time at the Forum in North Carolina!

SaaS

So what is Software as a Service (SaaS)?  
This is the new trend for delivering software in a cost effective manner that has begun to flourish in recent years. Companies like Google and PeopleSoft, among many others, already have such systems in place. The customer creates an account with the SaaS host which then allows them access to the software via the Internet. With the ETS software a customers' account is much more than just a gateway to use the software. There are customization options, a virtual hierarchy can be set up (see Figure 1), activity monitoring and a host of other features are available.
The driving force behind the SaaS innovation is threefold: the proliferation of computers, reliance on the Internet in virtually all aspects of work, and cost. Because you access the ElectronicTender System over the Internet, from any computer, you're no longer chained to your desk. Your savings through the subscription service are immediate. You avoid the costly prospect of deploying a traditional enterprise solution. This also frees you from the time and energy required to make certain such software is up to date and properly maintained.
SaaS - Virtual Hierarchy

One of the main concerns with SaaS solutions is that of data security (see Benefits - Product). With the enhanced security features inherent in the ETS software these problems are resolved. Additionally, unlike most other SaaS solutions, YSER administers the servers internally and keeps all access under strict control. Even so, it is not possible for a YSER administrator to access your account. The software simply does not have the capability of allowing this. So your data remains under your control at all times. More than that, your account administration remains under your control at all times. This allows an organization to maintain the level of security that they feel in appropriate and keeps your response times for almost all situations internal rather than relying on an external IT department.

Flexibility & Economy

The SaaS model remains a novel approach that has not been fully leveraged, despite its history. The benefits of using software as a service are:
  • The service provider avoids the costs involved in marketing and selling licenses, allowing them to offer their product at exceptionally competitive rates;
  • Subscribers pay nominal usage fees only when they use the system, avoiding the problem of buying expensive software that rarely sees use;
  • There are no system requirements, no installation fees or problems, no compatibility issues, and no keeping track of necessary updates.
  • NO IMPLEMENTATION TIME: within days of subscribing to the service you can be up and running
Because the system is subscription based users can access it at any time provided that they have access to an Internet connection and a Web browser. This allows them the flexibility of logging in to continue working whether they are in the office, at home, or traveling. Work is no longer chained to a desk or an office network.