What is SaaS?
Cloud computing was created in order to provide a more efficient option when it comes to software, platforms, and even infrastructure to a variety of users ranging from individuals to large corporations. SaaS, in particular, was created with the goal of delivering working software to end-users in a more smooth, economical, and trustworthy manner.
Simply said, SaaS solutions add value to a business by offering the proper kind of service to their clients and subscribers.
SaaS vs IaaS vs PaaS – common confusion
To explain better Software as a Service, let’s look at two other services, similar by name but different in practice.
In contrast to traditional software, SaaS application customers are not required to download software, maintain any existing IT infrastructures, or deal with any part of software management. Maintenance, upgrades, support, security, and all other aspects of software management are handled by vendors.
Infrastructure as a service (IaaS) providers host infrastructure components such as servers, storage, networking gear, and virtualization resources. It is utilized by businesses who wish to outsource their data center and computer resources to a cloud-based computing service provider. Customers who use IaaS services must continue to manage their data, apps, and operating systems.
PaaS offers a resource structure for an organization’s in-house developers. Developers can construct custom applications using this hosted platform. The vendor is in charge of managing the data center resources that support the products. PaaS services relieve customers of the responsibility of managing their operating systems, but they are still responsible for managing apps and data usage on their behalf.
Advantages of SaaS
Gain access to advanced applications. You do not need to buy, install, update, or maintain any hardware, middleware, or software to provide SaaS apps to users. SaaS makes even sophisticated corporate systems, such as ERP and CRM, accessible to organizations that lack the resources to purchase, operate, and manage the necessary equipment and software.
You just pay for what you use. You also save money because the SaaS service scales up and down automatically based on use.
Utilize free client software. Most SaaS apps may be run straight from a web browser, without the need to download and install any software, while some apps do require plugins or browser extensions. This eliminates the need for your users to download and install any additional software.
Easily mobilize your team. Because SaaS apps and data can be accessed from any Internet-connected computer or mobile device, it is simple to “mobilize” your workforce. You don’t have to worry about designing apps that will work on many sorts of computers and devices because the service provider has already done it. Furthermore, you do not need to bring in specialized skills to tackle the security risks inherent with mobile computing. A well-chosen service provider will assure the security of your data, regardless of the device that consumes it.
App data can be accessed virtually from any computer or mobile device. Users can access their data stored in the cloud from any Internet-connected computer or mobile device. Furthermore, because app data is kept in the cloud, no data is lost if a user’s computer or device fails.
Agile software development and SaaS
Agile software development is also designed to maximize business value and to provide valuable products to the customers.
Agile project management and SaaS solutions are both geared toward delivering value to the end customer. If a business believes Agile to be an advantage or a benefit in SaaS initiatives, it can assist SaaS to achieve that with the end-best user’s interest in mind. A lack of use for Agile methods does not necessitate their implementation. Agile, on the other hand, has the potential to improve software development efficiency and speed, so it should be at least evaluated for inclusion in your projects.
As a result, it’s crucial to understand that Agile is not merely a set of concepts or tactics. As a matter of fact, it’s also a mindset that must be acquired. This means that everyone in an organization should adopt an Agile approach to SaaS.
- Proper training to the team
- Executive buy-in
- Implementation strategy
What you can expect?
- Faster development cycle
- Faster feedback
- Faster fail or success
- Noticing problems earlier
- Faster adoption of change
It’s important to remember that you don’t have to embrace Agile project management in SaaS development just because you want to. It is only feasible to use SaaS in conjunction with an Agile strategy if it enhances the process and provides benefits to the organization.
