Is it Time for Your Company to Integrate Services into a SaaS Model?

Software as a service, or SaaS, applications have become all the rage in today’s business world. In fact, the rollout of integrated, cloud-based platforms not only allows companies to integrate more essential business functions into the cloud but also gives them a means to do so that won’t interrupt day-to-day business practices.

These days, cloud services are integrated via four core services: infrastructure, platform, storage and software. From implementing call center and telecom system services that allow your customers to discuss product/service needs to implementing simple programs like Trello or Ahrefs that help your team plan campaigns, set up projects and discuss upcoming tasks, you simply can’t avoid the transition to an online Saas-driven business model — that is, if you want to survive.

The Difficulties of Integration: What’s Right for Companies?

Obviously, migrating these four core services requires planning and proper execution, and certain tasks will present more challenges than others.

1. Infrastructure

Highly automated and scalable computer resources via cloud storage and network capability are what infrastructure as a service is all about. Customers can control use and meter services, as well as choose on-demand APIs and intuitive dashboards, giving them full access to servers and storage on a scalable level. Maintaining the practices of outsourcing, networking and full control of storage needs make this the editor’s choice as the most popular cloud-computing model.

2. Platform

This core service provides a platform from where software is developed or deployed. But there are some other untold benefits to using it. Case in point: Your platform provider takes care of and manages all hardware, server software and back-end components of your storage solutions, the actual operating system and network infrastructure. This option gives companies the freedom and leverage to focus on building their business, rather than having to worry about how to integrate the latest software every few months.

3. Software

Integrating software into any company’s infrastructure requires virtually no work or challenge aside from choosing the best type for your industry. No setup time is required, programs are up and running in no time, and relationship management apps like Dropbox and Google Apps make it easier for employees to communicate and provide the best service to customers.

4. Storage

Leasing/renting storage as a service is a little more costly for organizations. That’s because hosted storage involves allowing a hosting platform to store proprietary business information via the cloud. In addition to the challenge of choosing the right host, companies also have to be mindful of issues related to breach, security and migrating platforms, which requires more thought than simply choosing apps to implement into the company’s infrastructure.

The Priorities of Integration

When integrating disparate software, choosing data centers from which to outsource, or selecting integration apps to better perform business functions, organizations must focus on integrating solutions that work best for them. They should also consider factors like:

• The ease and cost of integration to implement new software
• Ease of use of new software and platforms
• How to integrate current practices with current business operations
• The ability to develop and grow, while providing the best services

It isn’t simply about choosing the best software, servers or outsourced services when integrating Saas into your business. Rather, organizations should take a step back and consider the overall effect, usability by employees and ability to integrate these cloud-based services into the organization, ensuring smooth transitions and the highest levels of success.

The Benefits of Cloud Transition

It’s no secret companies will realize numerous benefits after integrating operations into the cloud. That’s because initial costs are low, pay-as-you-go service options are available, and vendors are responsible for essential upgrades and updates. Plus, it’s easier to integrate than trying to perform these tasks yourself. Businesses can optimize their services on the cloud, become more efficient and have scalable metrics to gauge success upon when using cloud services. The fact that it works at any time, from anywhere, also ensures you’re always connected to your customers.

Is it Time to Integrate?

It’s only a matter of time before you’re left in the dark if your business hasn’t integrated SaaS applications into day-to-day business operations. Thanks to new technology and many simple integrative features that will help your organization run more efficiently, now is the time to transition to the cloud, where you’ll instantly realize the benefits of an online, wholly-integrated business.

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