Saas - Software as a Service. What does it mean? How it can benefit your arcade or family entertainment centre.
With technology moving so quickly and new acronyms appearing (and sometimes disappearing before we even know what it is!), SaaS is one that is sticking around. If you don’t quite know what it means, yet you nod your head when it’s mentioned in a conversation knowingly, then this is the article for you.
What is SaaS?
Software as a Service (SaaS) is a software distribution model in which a third party provider hosts applications and makes them available to customers over the internet. The application itself is configurable to the customers requirements and customers pay a recurring subscription fee for this service.
This means that customers do not need to pay for installations for software, which is also known as on-site hosting which is the traditional form of software delivery.
Benefits of SaaS
Scalable - As SaaS solutions reside in cloud environments, this means that it can easily grow alongside your business. The software can scale up in volume as your business does, and you do not need to purchase another server (like in the traditional on-site model), as the SaaS provider will look after this
Updates and Upgrades - rather than having to purchase new software or manually upgrading, SaaS vendors are able to provide clients with automatic updates. Using a SaaS vendor allows your business to automatically access the latest updates, features and upgrades to the software.
Accessibility - as a Web based solution, all you need is an internet enabled device in order to access the software. This allows you flexibility in hardware options as often a simple tablet or laptop will suffice. In addition to this, you can login from any device from any location. As a business owner, you can still check in on the daily sales reports while on vacation
Connectivity - Through the use of APIs, you have the option to connect into a variety of other systems and to set up data flows. A common connection can be between the fun center POS or entertainment POS systems directly onto financial systems. This reduces the opportunity for error and ensures that daily/monthly/yearly financial reporting is accurate.
Cost Effective - As SaaS removes the need to install software on location, it means that it can be more cost effective as businesses do not need to purchase specific hardware nor pay upfront installation fees.
Examples of Saas Companies
Facebook - well, we don’t pay a subscription for Facebook, however it is considered as a SaaS in the fact that when you sign up for Facebook, you then configure the profile according to your interests.
G-Suite - Gmail and Google Drive
All your Google Drive documents and photos are all stored in the cloud. If you are using this for business, it means that you and your staff can pretty much work from any location as they can access all their files using their own unique usernames and passwords.
Microsoft 365 - the same as G-Suite - except with Outlook and Files (Word, Excel and so on)
Mailchimp - this handy emailing tool is also a SaaS. If you are familiar with Mailchimp, you know that you simply go to their URL, login and you have access to your database and you can design and send email campaigns.
Is Embed moving to the cloud?
We glad you asked, yes we are. New features within TOOLKIT that are rolling including BOOKINGS, GURU and REPORTS, these are all working within the SaaS model. This is a great opportunity for your business as it allows you, as business owners more flexibility in accessing the data when you need it, manage operational issues remotely and keeping your customers happy with e-commerce solutions.
