You want to implement an intranet solution in your company, but you are still hesitating between a SaaS solution and an "On Premise" software ?
This article reveals all the good reasons to switch to a SaaS solution: follow the guide!
What is a SaaS intranet?
SaaS (Software As A Service) is a model whereby software is hosted and provided by a third party and made available to its customers via the Internet. With SaaS, there is no dedicated hardware or software for the company to acquire, install or update. The provider is solely responsible for the hosting, maintenance and evolution of the software.
Traditionally, SaaS and On-Premise software are contrasted (see below).
In concrete terms, a SaaS intranet is software provided by a third party, instead of being installed on the company's internal network. The users use the software's features through an Internet connection: they can access it wherever they are. They can use any device to access the software, whether it is a computer, a tablet or a smartphone. This means that company data and tools are always available, even on the go.
The SaaS model is now widely popular, because of its great flexibility and the quality of the user experience it offers.
How is a SaaS intranet different from other intranet solutions?
Prior to the advent of SaaS technologies, companies were using embedded software installed on the internal network. As a result, they were often forced to install additional software, make updates and/or purchase licenses. This is what we call the "On Premise" model.
Today, SaaS and On Premise models are two diametrically opposed approaches, each having repercussions on management, manpower, costs, etc. A SaaS intranet differs from other solutions in the following ways:
- Installation and maintenance: SaaS can be described as an out-of-the-box system, as the provider is responsible for all aspects of the software, hosting, maintenance and security. In the case of integrated software, the IT department is responsible for purchasing, installing and regularly updating the in-house software.
- Systems integration: the SaaS model is designed to allow for the seamless integration of additional services as needed. Having a SaaS intranet can lighten the workload of your IT teams since it is one less software to maintain.
- Cost: the cost of integrated software is not always affordable, especially for smaller companies. Especially since this type of software is not designed to adapt to changes in a company (e.g.: a growth situation). The advantage of SaaS lies in the fact that billing is based on the actual use of the software, which makes it an economical solution for companies of all sizes.