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Q: Is it cheaper to use software as a service from the web? And is it safe?

Sep 29 2008

Answered by: Chris Lindsay Ask a question

Using SaaS via the web is definitely the cheaper option, as it removes the need for upfront capital investment as well as upgrade costs. It also means that SMEs no longer need to manage and support critical business applications in-house, therefore reducing cost and increasing flexibility. As a result, UK SMEs can benefit from services previously only available to larger companies – an important factor in today’s current market.

Interestingly, recent BT research found that 60 per cent of companies using SaaS reported a fall in costs, while 50 per cent said it saved them time.

It’s important to remember that SaaS offers businesses many advantages from simple administration to online business networking and marketing, and many of these services are free to use.

Obviously with new viruses being detected everyday, then security becomes a real issue. However, by using SaaS, security software can be downloaded over the internet, paid for on a monthly subscription and updates are automatically processed, therefore keeping your business safe with a minimum investment in terms of time and money.

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