The software model of the future and now

The global pandemic and the associated economic difficulties left no stone unturned. Some industries are facing an extremely uncertain future. Other sectors are taking the crisis as an opportunity to drive digital transformation forward.

The software model of the future and now
The software model of the future and now

Software as a Service (SaaS) – one of the core elements of digital transformation – means that customers use their web browser to access applications that are operated by an external service provider. This model is on the rise in almost all private and professional areas. Microsoft 365, Google, e-mail tools, customer relationship management (CRM), database solutions and so on – examples of SaaS are everywhere.

Speech-to-text solutions such as Philips SpeechLive are also an example of SaaS and 100% cloud-based – and for good reason. You simply log in to your personal account with your email address via a web browser and access an innovative solution that quickly and easily converts speech into text. No need for installation time or a lengthy set-up.

What changed in 2020?

Companies need to concentrate on the essentials, namely the best possible service for their customers – anywhere, anytime. That means focusing on the core business, and flexibility is an absolute must when the general conditions change rapidly.

Software as a Service gives companies the flexibility they need in terms of location and time. Cloud-based applications can be used wherever there is internet. Flexibility also means simple scalability and flexible terms. Companies can add more users or remove users after the term – without investing in a purchased solution.

This makes Software as a Service solutions more budget-friendly. The costs can be planned on a monthly basis and there is no need for cumbersome updates. The updates are included, which guarantees security at all times.

Outdated software is a major security risk.

German IT security expert Christine Deger warns against Windows 7 in particular. Microsoft discontinued support for Windows 7 at the beginning of 2020, which means there will be neither software updates nor technical support. Hardware and software manufacturers therefore no longer support Windows 7 with their solutions and stop providing patches or updates. A classic gateway for cyber criminals.

Software as a Service is always up to date and does not “age”. All necessary security updates are played out regularly and automatically.

Software licenses that are purchased and installed once are current when they are purchased, but it doesn’t stay that way. Even if one-time licenses sound “cheaper” compared to monthly software subscription costs, you should be careful. Necessary updates cannot be done automatically and are often not included in the price.

Software as a Service includes all security updates and costs, meaning you will always have an up-to-date and secure solution.

Software as a Service is here to stay, and many successful organizations have already adopted this model. Flexibility and security are more important than ever in 2020, and SaaS can help you stay on track.

Take a look at our speech to text services

Article first issued on: 11.12.2020