As technology advances, there are more and more terms that we hear in our day-to-day lives that are unknown to many people. The term SaaS has become one of these words in which we at LedgerDocs frequently have to define for many of our new customers, so we decided to write a short blog post to describe it.
Software as a Service, commonly referred to as SaaS, is a software distribution model that allows for applications to be hosted by a service provider, making it available to customers over a network. Still confused? Basically, SaaS allows for a provider (LedgersOnline) to host an application (LedgerDocs) through our network, allowing for our customers (You) to access the application through online means, including but not limited to your computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Before the development of SaaS applications, customers were forced to buy their own software programs and install them on their home or office computers. This process created the need for high-tech computer systems, as well as hiring IT professionals who would maintain the hardware and software. The initial costs of setting up a system could be drastic, especially for small and medium sized business owners. Now that we have SaaS technology, business owners have the opportunity to pass on the initial costs to service providers, who host the applications on their own servers and offer their own IT professionals to help make the process as simple as possible.
There are many benefits of SaaS applications, the most important of which is the low initial costs. Because the service provider manages the IT infrastructure, there are less costs for the customer in regards to hardware, software, and the employees needed to manage the application. This also allows for an upgrade/update free application, as all of the changes to the application occur through the service provider. Using a SaaS application, customers are able to be worry-free in regards to adding hardware, software, or bandwidth as their user-base grows. Lastly, clients can access their application anywhere, at any time, through their internet connection. You do not need software on your devices, as the application is accessed through online means, allowing you to use the application through any device at any time.
LedgerDocs is a SaaS application that connects small business owners to their accountant and bookkeeper, via the cloud. It allows for small business owners to easily manage, collaborate, and store accounting documents with their bookkeeper or accountant. Try LedgerDocs free for 30 days (No CreditCard required).