Technology is constantly evolving and transforming the way that businesses operate. In an age of digital transformation, software as a service (SaaS) is rapidly gaining popularity and, in most sectors, has replaced traditional on-premises software. SaaS is great for businesses, big or small, because it helps with teamwork, makes work easier, and improves productivity.
In this blog, we will define SaaS and cloud computing and look at the key characteristics of SaaS. We will discuss why it is now the primary software delivery model and how it has changed the world of project management.
What is SaaS and Cloud Computing?
Software as a service (SaaS) is a cloud-based service model. In a nutshell, instead of traditionally installing software on-premises, SaaS is when a software application is hosted on the cloud and delivers the software over an internet connection. People can use the software on their laptop or phone easily by accessing it through a web browser. It is predominantly signed up on a subscription basis per user per month.
Cloud computing is when companies use the internet to access services from a cloud provider. They also pay for these services, which include databases, software, and networking. SaaS leverages cloud computing infrastructure making a software application accessible to any user, anywhere with an internet connection and internet-connected device.
Key Characteristics of SaaS
Accessibility: Users can access the software from anywhere at any time, all that is required is an internet connection and a web browser making it incredibly accessible and convenient.
Automatic updates and maintenance: SaaS providers handle all the software maintenance tasks such as bug fixes. This prevents users from experiencing the hassle of manual installations and dealing with technical problems. SaaS vendors update and improve software regularly, so businesses don’t need to worry about technical maintenance.
Subscription-based: Businesses pay a subscription typically per user per month. Some software may have a free version or offer tiered pricing which enables companies to select their subscription depending on their needs with the option to downgrade or upgrade as their business evolves.
Reliability: SaaS providers invest in cyber security protocols to ensure data security. With data security being more important than ever, Proteus meets the highest standards with ISO 27001 accreditation ensuring your data is protected.
Scalability: SaaS is extremely accommodating to changing needs of businesses. You can choose requirements based on your needs. For instance, if your company grows, you can easily add more users.
Advantages of SaaS for Project Management Processes
The Project Management Institute (PMI) criticises traditional project management tools as they primarily only support project planning, even though a successful project is 20% good planning and 80% good execution. Traditional on-premises project management tools prevent team collaboration by encouraging disconnected environments. In comparison, SaaS platforms foster collaboration amongst project teams supporting successful project execution.
Some key advantages of software as a service for project management processes include:
Real-time Data and Analytics
Project managers spend valuable hours chasing team members from different departments who are working with different documents, spreadsheets and systems. This makes having good project visibility extremely challenging and time-consuming.
The real-time insights provided by SaaS-based project management software enable project managers to closely monitor project progress easily. This helps project managers to act before problems get worse by giving them a clear view and enabling quick decisions. A data-driven approach to project management is key to optimising project performance and encouraging proactivity amongst project teams.
Data security is also key. SaaS infrastructure enables software providers to keep each customer’s data separate from others to protect their privacy and ensure security.
Integration Capabilities
Many SaaS vendors offer an application programming interface (API) to connect software tools, break data silos, streamline workflows, and boost efficiency. For example, Proteus integrates with Microsoft 365 and Sharepoint as well as other software such as Xero and Workday.
Accessibility and Collaboration
Project teams can use the software online to collaborate and share files easily, no matter where they are. Accessibility is important because project teams are often spread out worldwide due to globalisation, offshoring, and outsourcing. This accessibility, in addition to providing access to real-time data, connects and informs all stakeholders on project progress. Proteus centralises all project information ensuring everyone is on the same page.
Digital Transformation
SaaS is a key enabler in a company’s digital transformation journey. Some of our clients working on complex projects in the energy and construction industries have to use old systems in their large engineering environments. These often include clunky on-premise ERPs, large complicated spreadsheets, and data siloes.
Navigating a route towards a more connected workspace is challenging. However, it is a necessary and unavoidable step for businesses to stay agile and profitable. Using an innovative software development team like Proteus can assist in this process. We can collaborate with clients to find a solution that fits their specific business model.
Conclusion
The software as a service market has been one of the fastest growing in recent years, estimated to be worth around $197 billion and projected to reach $232 billion in 2024. Cloud computing improves business operations by eliminating the need for complicated software installation and maintenance. Proteus and other SaaS platforms have transformed project management, making teams work together better and improving project outcomes.
About Proteus Project Software
Xergy Group’s Proteus project management software works with your existing systems and scales as your business grows. Created by project management leaders, for the diversified engineering consultancy sector, Proteus delivers an end-to-end work management software platform with detailed workflows from the early opportunity stage through to project delivery.
Proteus’ end-to-end project management software is a cloud-based system designed for businesses of all sizes to handle projects of unlimited complexity. Proteus is compliant with common project management frameworks and ISO standards. Each feature aims to make bottom-line improvements by improving utilisation, streamlining workflows, providing quick and efficient access to resources, and reducing overheads. Check out some of our client case studies to learn more about how Proteus makes a tangible difference.
How to get Proteus
We recommend getting setup on a free trial. Proteus operates under a software-as-a-service (SaaS) model. We offer Enterprise packages and flexible pricing solutions: contact our team to learn more.
We designed Proteus to be simple, and that means you can get up and running on Proteus without an IT team or support from a programmer. You will want to spend a bit of time configuring the admin console so that you have everything set up to suit your company structure, but it’s very intuitive and you don’t need a PhD in IT. However, we want you to get the best out of what is a brilliantly powerful tool, so don’t hesitate to ask for our support. We have a team of product experts who are ready to help you with the configuration process, so get in touch today by filling out the form below:
