For many organisations, implementing a time & expense management solution involves purchasing software licenses, installing the software on their own servers, purchasing consultancy services to configure the system and load data, as well as paying an annual support and maintenance charge.  Until recently this has been the norm and requires organisations to make a capital investment in a system that is not always deemed mission critical.  More to the point, for organisations wishing to make the jump from paper-based or excel solutions to a dedicated solution, capital investment can be a major inhibitor.

Recently, there has been a lot of press coverage on Software as a Service (SaaS), whereby organisations access solutions on a subscription basis.  For many organisations this can be highly beneficial, for starters there is no capital expenditure required to purchase the software.  Secondly, the software is held on the supplier’s infrastructure meaning there is no involvement from IT to install or maintain the software; this is all carried out by the supplier for you.  Thirdly, SaaS solutions are web based meaning they are available globally 24-7-365 as long as you have access to a web browser and an internet connection.  This means as an organisation, you do not need expensive security access, VPN’s and backup processes as the infrastructure is fully maintained by the supplier.

So, whether you are looking to implement a new solution, replace an existing solution or have an existing client installed solution, SaaS offers numerous benefits:

• No Hardware or software costs
• No IT involvement required to implement and maintain the system
• Low cost monthly subscription meaning no capital investment and a rapid return on investment
• No annual support and maintenance charge
• No expensive infrastructure and security costs
• No upgrade costs or IT involvement

In many cases SaaS solution providers also offer additional benefits such as free automated data loads and free administration training to ensure you receive a configured solution with a rapid return on investment.

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Ian Needs

Ian Needs has over 13 years experience implementing project management software in SME’s and Corporate IT Departments, you can keep up to date with Ian’s project management tips via Twitter or by subscribing to our RSS Feed.

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