Have you ever used Google Docs or Photoshop Express? If you have, then you must have enjoyed the ability to work with documents and images without having to install anything to a computer. At the same time, you can share what you have made with other people without having to use flash drives since all files are saved on a central server. These online programs are a part of a growing movement to free tools from the computer and instead be delivered through the Internet. This model is called software as a Service or just SAAS.
This development can give benefits to normal users and businesses that, making SAAS just as important as the personal computer and the Internet itself. The fact that big software companies like Google and Microsoft is creating their own web-based programs means that SAAS will become the standard in the future.
How Things Work Before
In the past, to use a program one must purchase it a computer specialty store or have it delivered. These programs would come in packages that would include installers and some manuals. Small businesses that have several computers would need to order and install one for each machine. This is because software licenses do not allow a program to be installed on multiple systems. Larger companies, because of their sheer size, would not be able to implement such a model, or it would be too costly. Hence volume licensing was introduced. With volume licensing, big companies strike a deal with software developers to have a few installer discs deployed to their IT staff. The companies then will only need a common license.
The coming of the Internet allowed several changes in how the software is delivered, though. For a time, it was used to simply download patches and provide updates to programs. When connection speed became faster, it became possible for entire programs to be directly downloaded to the user’s PC. Usually, this entails a small program to be installed first, which would then take care of the installation. This model is still popular today and is used by many applications from drivers, web browsers, to office productivity tools. Even operating systems can be downloaded online, though it would have to be burned to a disc before it can be installed to a PC. The licensing process was still the same, though there are a lot of programs now that can be installed on multiple systems with no problem.
It is the advent of large networks and the Internet that would make SAAS possible. Web development platforms like Ajax and Java allowed the creation of programs that can run simply on web browsers. The first few programs were very simple, but it became a proof of concept of the opportunity it allowed. Websites stopped becoming static and allowed users to do more. Today normal users and businesses are able to use common applications just by being online instead of having to launch a program natively on their computers. Software developers are slowly adopting SAAS because it gives them the flexibility to manage applications and deploy new tools easily.
How SAAS Benefits Industries
SAAS can deliver tools to a variety of industries. It is normal to see web-based tools used in airline reservations, customer service, accounting, and technical support. Companies would not even know the difference between programs delivered through SAAS and those in traditional manner. The requirements will still be the same or even lower, with connection to the Internet a must. But because it is managed in a central location, it is possible to access programs in any online computer. Patches are not needed anymore because updates can be applied by the next time the program is opened. Pricing models also differ and are generally lower than current licensing costs.
It is also possible that home computing will experience more of the SAAS model. Photoshop Express and similar products will gain ground because they are currently free. However, it is possible that local users will be willing to accept a subscription service or a one-time fee, with the programs accessed through the web browser. Google Docs and ZOHO tools work in any browser and offer functionalities that even rival standard applications. There is even a plan by Microsoft to release an online version of their popular Office software. It is gaining acceptance to users because there is no need to take up space in the computer itself.
Surely, with all these developments, one thing is for certain: SAAS is definitely here to stay.
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