Dariel Solutions quoted in a Computing SA feature: Simplifying software

Written by Malcolm Rabson, MD at Dariel Solutions

Business software applications under-pin every facet of the global economy. For this reason the development of the Software as a Service (SaaS) model was inspired by the need for more flexible and simpler software solutions that are able to handle a range of customers, at affordable prices. The ability to remotely deliver total software solutions via subscriptions over the Internet gives customers the open to rent, rather than purchase, software.

Though once perceived as a security risk, the SaaS model for outsourcing applications is becoming increasingly popular. The model's only real limitation is the difficulty in customising solutions that are available to more open markets, so the question is: Can SaaS provide customers with the same competitive advantage as custom-built applications?

The answer is yes. In fact, with the new techniques being implemented on a daily basis by the SaaS community members, customisation over the Internet is becoming more of a reality. For example, the multi-tenant architecture offers customers the ability to administer the same software, but with different data. Thus, this approach holds advantages for customers, as integration tools, customisation and upgrades are immediately available and accessible across a broad platform.

By allowing for tailor-made flexibility for a business's specific requirements, the customer is assured that he or she is paying for a 'whole' solution that is developed specifically for them and their business, unlike with package solutions, where, generally, 90-95% of the package is not required. This gives the customer the option to integrate specific elements into their processes, while controlling their own intellectual property.

Furthermore, there are no hidden costs associated with the SaaS model, as customers only use and build upon the applications that they really need and want. With no specific product training, consultancy or maintenance costs involved, SaaS allows customers to have an accurate costing when estimating their application spend.

For many CIOs, the question: "How much will it cost?" remains the most important factor when deciding on their application solutions, and to make a conscious decision of what will work best, for who and at what price. The SaaS model, however, will and does address business's needs for lower IT costs and greater flexibility, making it possible for software assets from many types of components to be easily exploited in new solutions, with complex integration projects and exorbitant price tags.

As SA continues to grow towards being a software powerhouse, SaaS, if correctly used, could the tool that the industry has been waiting for.

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