Software as a Service, or SaaS for short, is a software model for companies that continues to grow in popularity. This is due, inter alia, to the lack of the need to install the program on computers, because everything is done using the cloud. There are also other advantages to this solution. What is SaaS? Where is it used?

SaaS model – what is it?

SaaS stands for software as a service. Users can access it via the cloud, they don’t have to install anything on their computers. This is due to the lack of the need for configuration or servicing. SaaS is a turnkey solution. To use it, all you need to do is pay the subscription fee. In this model, the obligations related to updating, technical support and management are transferred to the service provider. He, not the user of the software, has control over everything and it is his responsibility to ensure that it runs reliably.

There are many examples of SaaS, each of us uses such a solution. This includes e mail. You log into your account to gain access to the box, but the software is in the cloud, all messages and attachments are saved on an external server. The SaaS model is also used by popular streaming services, but it is most often referred to in the context of business. Through it, various types of applications are made available, including financial, accounting, analytical and human resource management. On this model, you can host video files, manage projects, run podcasts or build your own online store. SaaS is an important element of running a business for many people.

Advantages of SaaS – is it worth choosing such software?

One of the most important advantages of the SaaS model is the comfort of use. It does not require the purchase of a license, installation of the program on computers, remembering about updates or regular servicing. The service provider is responsible for managing the application. SaaS is associated with rapid deployment. There is no need to waste time not only installing software, but also waiting for the delivery, construction and configuration of the entire system and server infrastructure. The very process of implementing a new solution is not only shorter, but usually also cheaper. The user does not bear the license fee, which can be risky when checking new software (only after some time it may turn out that it does not fully work). It should also be remembered that if the application is installed on several computers, you have to buy a separate license for each one. In the Software as a Service model, a monthly, quarterly or annual subscription is most often profitable, which is not very burdensome.

It is also important to have access to all software data from anywhere. Information is stored in the cloud and you only need a device with Internet access to view, modify or share it. In addition, SaaS is a model that ensures a high level of security. There is no risk of data loss in the event of a hardware failure of the user. IT systems secured in such a way as to provide customers with the highest possible level of protection are responsible for the provision of services. It is not without significance that access to SaaS must be guaranteed at all times, without any interruptions. It is the suppliers’ responsibility to ensure reliable operation, even in the event of a major breakdown or natural disaster.

The other advantages of SaaS include:

• Simplicity and comfort of work– software as a service is a model that ensures easy and comfortable use. Anyone can concentrate on the tasks they need to get done without having to think about how to handle the software. The problem of a temporary drop in its performance or jamming also disappears.
• Access to the current versionis ensured – users always use the current version of the application, even though they do not have to install it themselves. The service provider is responsible for everything.
• Access for everyone– there is no need for time-consuming training before implementing the software. It is also not necessary to employ people with specialist knowledge, incl. on data security. Each employee of the company can freely use the application, also via smartphones and similar devices, which has a positive effect on their mobilization.
• Customization– SaaS is a flexible solution that can be easily adapted to individual needs. When the need arises, the number of access points or necessary resources can be increased.

Many entrepreneurs choose the SaaS model to automate their business. Thanks to it, it becomes possible to create customer databases, issue invoices and perform many other activities in the CRM system. Is this a completely flawless solution? Not completely. While you can use SaaS anywhere, anytime, you need an Internet connection. However, for most companies, this is not a problem because constant access to the network is already a standard. You should also be aware that when a supplier breaks down, working in the enterprise can be very difficult. However, the risk of this happening is small. The owners of this type of service ensure the security and reliability of the entire infrastructure. For some, it may also be an obstacle that the number of features available depends on the platform. Not all of them may fully suit the user in this respect.

SaaS in e-commerce

There are many platform solutions available for online stores on the Polish e-commerce market. People starting their adventure in this area of ​​activity are very often recommended to SaaS. This is due both to the high potential of this model and the relatively low cost. Software as a service can be easily integrated intomarketing automation, couriers, mailing platforms, and similar options. There is a settlement in the form of a subscription, and the monthly fee is sometimes only a few dozen zlotys, so it is not a big burden for business. This encourages you to give SaaS a try and see if it’s a good choice in the long run. It is an almost ready-to-run online store; just enter the most important elements needed for its functioning, including products, prices, regulations, etc. Software as a Service does not require very large investments at the very beginning, which distinguishes it from creating your own website from scratch. Using it has several other benefits, such as:

• Automation of activities – in SaaS you can automate, among others mailing. Employees do not have to write and send messages on their own regarding the change of order status, shipment of products or new products in the offer. This not only saves valuable time, but also minimizes the risk of mistakes. Automation to some extent also affects customer satisfaction, as they do not have to ask for important information about their orders themselves.
• Acceleration of processes – software as a service is a model that allows integration with various programs necessary to run an online store, including accounting and warehouse. This speeds up the course of all important processes, and thus improves the functioning of the business.
• Flexibility – even if the simplest and cheapest subscription was chosen at the beginning, nothing prevents you from changing it to a more extensive option at the right moment. This is conducive to the free development of business, every entrepreneur will easily adapt SaaS to his needs and requirements.
• Support for marketing activities – in order to be successful, the online store must not forget about marketing. SaaS provides support also in this area, an example is the possibility of starting a blog, which works very well as an additional channel of communication with customers. If necessary, other solutions can also be implemented, such as discount coupons or integration with a price comparison engine.
• Access to updates and technical support – a SaaS user always has access to the current version of the software and new functions. In addition, he does not need to hire someone to solve problems related to the operation of the system. Technical support is provided by the service provider.

Source: https: //www.shopper.pl/integrations/

Which SaaS online store to choose?

In order not to regret choosing a specific software, it is worth first preparing a list of what it should contain. It is necessary to pay attention not only to the ease of use, but also to all available functions, integration options, template modification and similar issues that are important. The next steps are to read the opinions about the systems and check which one is most tailored to your individual requirements.

When deciding which SaaS to choose, it is worth paying special attention to the most popular solutions. These include:

• Shopper-the system can be tested for 14 days for free. There are two options to choose from, i.e., an online store integrated with Ceneo, Allegro, and Subiekt, as well as Shoper Premium with options such as handling high traffic or migrations.
• IdoSell, the service provider, currently supports over 6,500 online stores, provides unlimited technical support and a modern engine. IdoSell also means many integrations, any design of the sales platform and thousands of ready-made functions.
• Shopify-Here you can also try the software for 14 days for free. It is an efficient English-language platform that gives access to many different website designs and all the necessary options, such as shipping, secure payments, and marketing activities.
• Shoplo offers three tools to choose from: an online store, a platform for contact with customers, and multi-channel sales. It is a comprehensive software with built-in payments, ready-made templates, and over a hundred integrations and add-ons.

Especially when you don’t have a large start-up budget, SaaS is a good choice. Often, it is also chosen by those who want to find out if their idea will turn out to be a thriving budget. Software as a service is a model that works well in both one-person and much larger companies. Nevertheless, before making a binding decision, it is worth considering all the advantages and disadvantages of this solution in order to be sure that it will facilitate your business.