SaaS Cloud Computing - Why oh Why?

SaaS Cloud computing (Software as a Service) offers many benefits. But like many things in life, it isn't perfect.


The key benefits of SaaS compared to on-premise packages include:

1. Faster implementation, due to differences in selection process and physical procurement. (Note: Implementation itself is little different for a system of equivalent complexity)
2. Improved backup and disaster recovery (typically, by comparison to many organisations large and small)
3. Remote access from anywhere in the world that offers internet access
4. Reduced costs up-front, as OpEx rather than CapEx
5. Potentially power admin costs and hassle through no need to have the staff to administer the system and database (although you'll still need basic app administration such as adding and removing users)

However  the key drawbacks of SaaS are:

1. Loss of management control, as with any outsourcing arrangement, unless you are a major customer of the app supplier and can exert superior influence
2. Reliance on an internet connection, for which at least two types of connection at each location is recommended so one acts as a contingency
3. Access security, especially for any apps that rely just on username and password (Why don't more SaaS systems offer at least an optional third level, such as an easily-memorable security question or numeric grid?)

Many SaaS systems are on a "multi-tenant" basis, where  various user organisations share one database with other organisations. Some providers offer an option to have your own database, either at their data centre or on your own premises (when it effectively becomes an on-premise web-enabled software package). In either case, you can have better control over if and when a software upgrade takes place, and avoids risks of sharing a database (however small they suggest those risks are).

Further details are in previous articles.

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