Cloud-based services have become the go-to choice for field service organizations wanting to remain competitive, adapt to continuous change and keep up with customer expectations.
This is why, if you’re the owner of a field service organization looking to switch from traditional software solutions to cloud-based options, it’s important to understand the difference between SaaS, PaaS and IaaS.
- In this blog we’ll define each of these services and discuss how to choose the right one for your business.
- We will also look at some of their advantages and drawbacks so that you can be fully informed before you commit.
SaaS: Software as a Service
In the past, software was something you installed on your computer. Now, with cloud computing, it is something you access via the Internet. This is known as software as a service or SaaS.
- SaaS is a type of cloud computing that delivers software tools and benefits via the
- With SaaS, businesses can access and use the software from any location with an Internet connection, which is highly beneficial for organizations needing access to software in the field.
One of the advantages of SaaS is that it’s usually subscription-based. This means that businesses only pay for what they use and can scale their usage up or down as needed.
- This makes SaaS a more flexible and cost-effective option than traditional software licenses.
Another advantage of SaaS is that the provider takes care of updates, so users won’t have to continually purchase “new” versions of the product. This takes away the additional hassle and expense of product maintenance.
- If you’re considering cloud-based options, SaaS is flexible, cost-effective and easy to use.
PaaS: Platform as a Service
PaaS delivers a complete development and deployment environment in the cloud, without the need for customers to install or manage any infrastructure. Customers can simply create an account and begin developing their applications on the PaaS provider’s platform.
PaaS offerings vary widely, but most include some combination of application servers, storage, database management systems, and development tools. Many PaaS providers also offer ready-made applications that can be deployed on their platform with little or no modification.
- PaaS can be a good choice for customers who want to focus on developing and deploying their applications, without worrying about managing infrastructure.
- However, because customers are reliant on the PaaS provider for both the platform and the applications, it’s important to choose a reputable provider with a good track record of uptime and customer satisfaction.
IaaS: Infrastructure as a Service
IaaS, or Infrastructure as a Service, is a cloud computing model that delivers computer infrastructure — typically servers, storage, networking and data center space — as a pay-as-you-go service. IaaS providers typically bill on a per-use basis, meaning you only pay for the resources you consume.
IaaS can be used to supplement or replace on-premises infrastructure. For example:
- An organization might use IaaS to host its website in the cloud instead of on an on-premises server.
Or
- An organization might use IaaS to run mission-critical applications that require high levels of security and availability but don’t warrant the expense of building and maintaining its own data center.
IaaS providers offer a variety of services, including servers, storage, networking and databases. Many IaaS providers also offer additional services such as monitoring, backup/disaster recovery and identity management.
Which One is Right for Your Business?
The key difference between SaaS, PaaS and IaaS is the level of control that the user has over the infrastructure.
- SaaS provides a complete package with little to no control for the user.
- PaaS and IaaS give the user more control over the infrastructure and how it is used.
When choosing between SaaS, PaaS and IaaS, it is important to consider what level of control you need over your infrastructure.
- If you need complete control or customization, then IaaS is likely the best option.
- If you need some control but don’t want to manage the infrastructure yourself, then PaaS may be a good option.
- If you want a complete package with little to no control, then SaaS may be the best option.
Navigating these options to find the right field service management solution can be difficult. If your organization is looking for field service expertise to help make that decision easier, contact us.
