Application services, more commonly referred to as Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), are a form of computing where software and data hosted on a cloud are provided to end users by a Cloud Solutions Provider. They rely on the use of a ‘thin client’ which is a computer or web based application that in turn relies on a server to carry out its computational functions. The server is far more powerful than the thin client, and this allows it to process tasks that are either too complex or demanding for the thin client.
An example of this is computer terminals for e-resource access in public libraries. The data by a public library is huge and access of such can be a problem, much akin to data stored on the cloud. All the data that is stored on the cloud is structurally labelled for easy access and retrieval.
A cloud solutions provider or application service provider (ASP) provides applications, software, hardware and data storage for you. These services are mainly provided on a pay per use subscription basis, which lowers the cost for you. The administration of the IT resources and provision of data is provided by the application service provider.
The business model for application services utilises remote hosting of software services to be provided through a shared network, most commonly the internet, by use of client applications. The network of access can also be a private data centre with a locked network. You pay for the application services that you intend to use on a need basis in either the form of a regular subscription or pay as you go payment plan with the application service provider.
The advantages of such a system are:
1. SaaS allows for configuration of the program parameters by you to tailor make a customized functio0nality of the software service acquired. This operates much like conventional software customization which allows for the selection of the particular facets of an application useful to you.
2. SaaS applications are easily updated and maintained as they are hosted centrally by the ASP. Furthermore, because they are pooled resources, it ensures cross compatibility of data forms across users allowing for easier data sharing.
3. It allows for easier collaboration both within a company and across the users. Additional features such as online social networking functionality enhance this feature.
4. It eliminates costs incurred in software acquisition and maintenance. Furthermore, when properly implemented, it can not only reduce but also eliminate the need for support and administrative personnel.
5. ASP’s serve many clients upping the need for proper security and data protection.
An example of this is computer terminals for e-resource access in public libraries. The data by a public library is huge and access of such can be a problem, much akin to data stored on the cloud. All the data that is stored on the cloud is structurally labelled for easy access and retrieval.
A cloud solutions provider or application service provider (ASP) provides applications, software, hardware and data storage for you. These services are mainly provided on a pay per use subscription basis, which lowers the cost for you. The administration of the IT resources and provision of data is provided by the application service provider.
The business model for application services utilises remote hosting of software services to be provided through a shared network, most commonly the internet, by use of client applications. The network of access can also be a private data centre with a locked network. You pay for the application services that you intend to use on a need basis in either the form of a regular subscription or pay as you go payment plan with the application service provider.
The advantages of such a system are:
1. SaaS allows for configuration of the program parameters by you to tailor make a customized functio0nality of the software service acquired. This operates much like conventional software customization which allows for the selection of the particular facets of an application useful to you.
2. SaaS applications are easily updated and maintained as they are hosted centrally by the ASP. Furthermore, because they are pooled resources, it ensures cross compatibility of data forms across users allowing for easier data sharing.
3. It allows for easier collaboration both within a company and across the users. Additional features such as online social networking functionality enhance this feature.
4. It eliminates costs incurred in software acquisition and maintenance. Furthermore, when properly implemented, it can not only reduce but also eliminate the need for support and administrative personnel.
5. ASP’s serve many clients upping the need for proper security and data protection.
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