Software as a service vs application service provider

It provides access to a particular application program using a standard protocol. The advantage of ASPs is that it provides small and medium sized businesses with specialized software, which they may or may not otherwise be able to afford. It also bypasses the physical need for distributing the software, as well as the upgrades.

In addition to the software, ASPs also maintain up-to-date services, 24 x 7 technical support, physical and electronic security, as well as in-built support for business continuity and flexible working. ASPs are a way for companies to outsource some or almost all aspects of their information technology needs.

Similarly, SaaS is a software delivery model in which software and the associated data are centrally hosted on the cloud. The users can access the software from a web browser.

However, there are some minute differences between the two. ASPs focus on managing and hosting third-party independent software vendors' software, whereas SaaS vendors typically develop and manage their own software. Also, ASPs offer more traditional client-server applications which require installation of software on users' personal computers. However, it is often unaffordable for many. It also eliminates the physical need for having to distribute the software, including the upgrades.

ASPs provide a way for businesses to outsource some or nearly all aspects of their IT needs. Similarly, SaaS — as a software deliver model — provides a platform in which software, as well as the associated data, is centrally hosted on the Cloud and the users can quickly access the software from their web browser. Regardless, there are some minor differences between the two. On the other hand, SaaS rely solely on the Web and can be accessed via a web browser.

However, SaaS does not maintain such requirements, as SaaS solutions use a multi-tenant architecture in which the application serves multiple users and businesses. Users access SaaS over the internet and it works in maintenance and service operation. Also, users pay per use and not as per a license, while the provider is responsible for maintenance and storage of data and business logic in the cloud.

A major advantage of SaaS is that businesses can potentially reduce IT support costs by outsourcing their hardware and software maintenance and support needs to the SaaS provider. While there are some vendors who have found success with ASP model, this success has been limited due to issues of scalability and customization between systems.

With a SaaS offering, the software you are using will always be the most current, as your software providers always apply regular updates, maintenance, and latest enhancements. What this means for ASP customers is that necessary maintenance and market-driven enhancements are batched up and often delayed for months. In ASP, vendors offer the choice between an on-site application and a web-based instance. SaaS uses multitenant architecture to deliver business and personal software to end-users.

An active network connection and a compatible endpoint are all it takes to ensure seamless operations using SaaS. The provider takes care of every software element, such as codes, scripts, and algorithms.

Servers and other hardware, as well as the infrastructure that hosts them, are maintained at specialized vendor facilities. For the customer, this translates to zero upfront investment in hardware setup, personnel and payroll, and software licensing. Companies use PaaS to access advanced application development and deployment environments and tools. With PaaS, tech personnel enjoys the timely and affordable development of functional, easy-to-use, and unique applications.

The rote management of software updates, platform operations, and security patches becomes hassle-free with PaaS. Thus, developers can focus on core applications or web development. SaaS removes the need to buy software, install it, and maintain and manage all associated hardware and software issues.

Instead, clients of this cloud-based solution pay a fixed, recurring fee. Clients only need to access and start using the pre-configured application, thus reducing the time for installation, setup, fixing glitches in deployment, and addressing IT issues raised by end-users.

High-quality user interfaces and a low adoption learning curve mean that SaaS is ready to go when a business need arises. Additionally, a wide scope for customization means that SaaS can be built to meet the needs of specific industries, as required. The PaaS vendor hosts and maintains the required software platforms and the associated physical infrastructure to provide a ready-to-use platform on a flexible basis.

End-users gain turnkey access to cutting-edge operating systems, web servers, databases, and even the desired execution environments and programming languages.

With SaaS, the vendor controls every single aspect of the software, with the end-user only accessing it for day-to-day operations. This means that the client company only has to provide its employees with access credentials and possibly, a short training session on using the SaaS solution. The provider takes care of everything from scripting and coding to updates and patching.

Tech professionals use PaaS to create software without having to start from scratch, thus avoiding a majority of hassles associated with creating, testing, fixing, and deploying code. PaaS is used to build tailor-made applications, with APIs and cloud delivery often playing a key role in this process.

PaaS encompasses database management systems, middleware, development tools, business intelligence BI solutions, and infrastructure such as servers, storage, and networks. These solutions provide comprehensive support for the application lifecycle in a single, integrated environment. SaaS solutions can be used for any job role.

A few prominent examples are outlined below:. Both PaaS and SaaS are highly scalable, available, and affordable solutions that enable employees to work in cutting-edge work environments without having to worry about the maintenance or management of the associated platform or software. In the case of PaaS, there is a significant reduction in the need for coding during development.

This solution also simplifies migration to a hybrid development model whenever required. Additionally, access to multiple users through a single development application and integration of databases and web services is possible with PaaS. Virtualization technology, simplified scaling of development capabilities, and a wide variety of associated products and services to assist with the testing, development, and deployment of software and applications are a few other benefits of PaaS adoption.

On the other hand, SaaS provides several distinct advantages to enterprises by minimizing the time, money, and effort spent on rote tasks such as the installation, management, and upgrade of software. With SaaS, technical staff has more free time to spend on productive business tasks. SaaS enables business policies to be geared toward automation and encourages centralized management through digital channels. Platform as a Service versus Software as a Service—does your company have a use case for either?

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Your email address will not be published. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

No Account? Sign up. By signing in, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Already have an account? Sign in. Enter the email address associated with your account. We'll send a magic link to your inbox. Email Address. All Sign in options. Enter a Email Address. Choose your interests Get the latest news, expert insights and market research, sent straight to your inbox.

Newsletter Topics Select minimum 1 topic. Platform as a Service PaaS vs. Hossein Ashtari Technical Writer September 21, PaaS defined Companies use PaaS to access development and deployment environments that are cloud-based, comprehensive, and cutting-edge. How PaaS Works Private PaaS offers developers a user-friendly work environment and allows efficient consumption of internal resources.

SaaS defined SaaS is a model for software distribution. Remote delivery PaaS and SaaS share the same mode of delivery. Affordable pricing Another defining feature of PaaS and SaaS is the economic viability enjoyed by client companies through their adoption. Flexible operations Last but not least is the aspect of flexibility, a hallmark of both cloud-based solutions.

SaaS vs. PaaS vs. A few prominent examples are outlined below: Tools for enhancing productivity and collaboration of all employees, teams, and departments. Solutions for addressing challenges faced in sales, marketing, and customer service.