"Software-as-a-service places customers' and vendors' interest squarely together and gives back to the customer the power usually granted to those with the power to write checks and withhold payments. The SaaS model makes satisfying customers-existing customers-the vendor's most important priority.

A customer is important every day, not just when they are about to cut the occasional, very large check."



David Coursey
Technology Analyst


What is Software as a Service (SaaS)?

Plex Online: SaaS ERP for Manufacturers


Plex Online utilizes the software as a service (SaaS) model to deliver full-blown manufacturing ERP software functions in an on-demand model. Plex online is a web-based ERP solution, requiring only a web browser to access all of the analysis and management functions of a full-featured manufacturing ERP system, designed to meet the requirements of all departments within a quality-driven manufacturer, shop floor to top floor. No hardware or software installations are required.

Contrary to common misconceptions about SaaS solutions, Plex Online can be "customized" to meet the exact requirements of individual companies and departments. With the SaaS model, however, those customizations immediately become part of the core software functionality, and are never obsoleted with the next release or upgrade.

Frequently Asked Questions:


(Click [+] or [-] to expand/collapse a question.)

- What is "software as a service"?  

- What are the benefits of SaaS solutions?  

- Another software company hosts their software and offers me subscription pricing
  Why should I care whether or not it's "multi-tenant"?
  
A SaaS Primer

How to assess true SaaS and minimize confusion about the solution, the model and its advantages.

This paper presents short-term and long-term benefits of the SaaS model.


Software as a Service vs. Client/Server Models
 Software as a ServiceClient/Server (on premises)
Pricing ModelMonthly subscription feePerpetual Software License (purchase)
HardwareIncludedCustomer purchases
OS licensesIncludedCustomer purchases
Software licensesIncludedCustomer purchases
User AccessWeb browserClient software installed on every PC
Maintenance FeesIncluded18-23% of software cost, monthly
InstallationNo hardware or software installation; implementation and customization may be requiredLengthy installation and customizations generally required
IT Operations: backup, patches,
security monitoring, etc.
IncludedCustomer must perform
CustomizationsCustomizations available; all custom development is wrapped into core product and supported for long-term.Heavy customizations available, and often required. Not necessarily supported by future releases.
Upgrade costsIncluded; new features introduced daily.One-time purchase (minor upgrades included in maintenance fee); major upgrades require re-implementations