How to Choose the Right SaaS Solution for Your Business?
SaaS, short for Software as a Service, allows you to host your applications in the Cloud, eliminating the need to store them on internal servers and the associated risks of data loss. In 2023, SaaS has become ubiquitous, often used unconsciously by the majority of individuals, whether at work through collaborative tools or at home with streaming video applications, to name just a few.
Are you hesitating to make the leap? In this exploration, we will dive into the captivating world of SaaS, highlighting its benefits and providing essential tips to make informed decisions regarding software solutions.
What are SaaS Software?
SaaS software represents a revolutionary approach in the field of computer software. They are characterized by the fact that you can access software via the Internet without the need to install anything on your local computer.
To use this software, you no longer need to acquire a license or set it up on your own servers. SaaS software is now hosted and managed by an external provider, and you simply subscribe to access it via the Internet. You can easily log in to the solution using an ID and password on its dedicated web page.
CRM, Human Resources, Marketing, accounting, and many others are SaaS software available, covering a wide variety of areas useful for business management. These software programs are designed to be user-friendly, with a continuously improved user interface to optimize the user experience.
Why Choose a SaaS Solution for Your Business?
The advantages of SaaS over traditional “On-Premise” solutions installed on your company’s internal servers are numerous:
- Time-saving
With SaaS, you no longer have to worry about managing your software or its updates, which can sometimes be time-consuming. Your provider takes care of maintenance in the background, relieving your IT team and allowing you to focus on your tasks without hassle. Additionally, setup is quicker because you access the software directly from the internet, eliminating laborious installations.
- Cost-effective
SaaS software reduces company expenses by 30% compared to traditional software suites, according to a study. You avoid high costs for licenses and updates, as the SaaS model offers pricing tailored to your usage. Several paid plans are usually available, allowing you to choose according to your future needs. From an accounting perspective, SaaS is considered an operational expense, which differs from recording traditional software as an investment.
- Mobile Use
With the rise of mobility, SaaS solutions adapt to all uses, unlike internal software. Thanks to internet access, you can connect to the software from any device: your own computer, a colleague’s computer, a phone, or a tablet. This allows you to manage your business from anywhere, instantly, as long as you have an internet connection.
- Flexible Use
By subscribing to a SaaS solution, you choose the applications and services you need, offering you a personalized solution tailored to your requirements. Moreover, these applications are accessible everywhere, with just an internet connection and a computer, allowing employees to work from home without accessing the company’s servers. Often, mobile apps are also available, offering a multi-device experience.
- Secure Use
Each user has an account with specific access rights, allowing them to access the platform based on their role and responsibilities (read-only, edit, approve, administer, etc.). When an employee leaves the company, revoking access to all software centrally is simple.
How to Choose the Right SaaS Solution for Your Business?
To make an informed decision regarding the choice of SaaS software, it is essential to conduct thorough investigations. This involves defining your budget, identifying specific needs, evaluating available options, and considering the number of users.
- Define Your SaaS Strategy
Regardless of the field targeted by the SaaS solution (HR, CRM, collaboration, etc.), it is crucial to develop a strong strategy. Your needs will dictate the features to look for in software, allowing you to pay only for what is necessary. Ask yourself questions such as: What are the priority areas? What criteria are essential for your software? What requirements should you impose on your provider? How many users will be involved?
- Set Your Software Budget
Although SaaS solutions are generally more affordable than traditional software, they still represent a monthly cost. Therefore, it is crucial to set a monthly budget for your software while allowing for potential hidden costs. Planning your software expenses over a period of 4 to 5 years, for example, can be very useful.
- Test Multiple Solutions
The best way to determine which solution best suits your needs, meets your criteria, and is easy to use is to test them. Most solutions offer a free trial period, so take advantage of it. After all, this is a serious investment that will impact your business management, so it is legitimate to be demanding.
- Evaluate Software Flexibility
Your business will evolve over time, which may lead to more complex feature requirements. Pay attention to the software’s potential for growth, as it will accompany you over several years. One of the advantages of the SaaS model is the ability to choose features based on your specific needs. Avoid overly rigid and standardized software.
- Learn How to Use and Become Operational
Although SaaS solutions are often intuitive, ensure that there are written tutorials or videos to train you on their use. Also, evaluate the effectiveness of customer support, which should be able to answer all your questions.
If your organization is interested in implementing customized SaaS solutions, our team is ready to discuss your needs and present our solutions to help you achieve your goals.
Don’t miss this opportunity—contact us now!
