In the fast-paced digital age we live in today, software is critical to business success it allows businesses to operate more efficiently, increase productivity and ultimately provide better service to customers. With the advancement of technology, there are two main types of software solutions that companies frequently find when they are in need: SaaS (Software As A Service) and stand-alone programs. They both achieve the same goal, but they work differently, and knowing that can help you make an educated decision on which one is going to be right for your business.
So let’s explore SaaS vs stand-alone applications in detail to provide clarity on what they are, how they work and how you can use these to your advantage.
What is SaaS?
SaaS (Software as a Service) Software that is available on the internet instead of being installed on users’ PCs. Unlike the usual software you need to install on your device or local server, SaaS is accessed via a web browser, with all the heavy lifting done in the cloud. Common SaaS products are applications such as Google Workspace, Slack and Salesforce.
How SaaS Works
Let’s say for the sake of argument that you’re looking to manage your business’s email campaigns. You can eschew having to download and install a complex software package on your computer by just signing up for an online SaaS service, such as Mailchimp. The app is installed on a server and connects through your browser.
Usually SaaS providers offer a subscription instead of licenses. What that means for you is that you pay for the service on a monthly or annual basis, which must be cheaper than shelling out thousands of dollars up front for the traditional software model. Furthermore, SaaS platforms are constantly updated by the provider so you never miss out on any of its new features, all without you having to do a manual update.
Benefits of SaaS
Cost-Effective Because SaaS is a subscription-based service, the cost of SaaS is almost always cheaper than acquiring and holding software by traditional means. It also gets rid of the expensive hardware required to power the software.
Accessibility: You can sign-in to SaaS tools from any device with an internet connection–whether in the office, at home, or on the road.
Scalability: You can quickly scale your SaaS usage as your business expands, adding more users or purchasing a higher plan.
Automatic Updates: The software is hosted in the cloud which means that the provider does all updates, bug fixes and adds new features behind the scenes without you doing anything.
What are Stand-Alone Applications?
Now, when we say “stand-alone applications”, we mean the old-school software that you download and install straight onto your computer or local server. These applications work without an internet connection, but some of them may have online features or integrations. Check out these examples: such as Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop and QuickBooks Desktop.
How Stand-Alone Applications Work
When you download and install a stand-alone app, it gets directly executed on your device. For instance, say you need help controlling your personal finances. But instead of working with a cloud-based solution, you’d download and install QuickBooks Desktop. The software is managed entirely within your computer, and your data remains on the hard drive or network server.
Although offline apps generally don’t need internet all the time, they might occasionally need an update (that you would have to download and install manually). A few of these can also connect to other software or web services, but the basic functionality is standalone.
Benefits of Stand-Alone Applications
Offline Usage: Stand-alone apps do not need a connection to the Internet in order to function, which is their main positive. It can be particularly handy for those companies in more isolated areas, or anyone not interested in keeping their data on the cloud.
Data Control: Because stand-alone applications have data stored on-prem, you know exactly where your data is located. This can be a comforting detail for businesses fretting about cloud security or data privacy.
Customisation More standalone systems can offer further customisation if you require deeper integration with other your on premise software, the more you control how this application fits into your business.
Key Differences Between SaaS and Stand-Alone Applications
| Feature | SaaS | Stand-Alone Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Access | Web-based (internet required) | Local software (works offline) |
| Cost | Subscription-based (monthly/annual) | One-time purchase or licensing fees |
| Data Storage | Cloud storage (managed by provider) | Local storage (on your device/server) |
| Updates | Automatic, handled by provider | Manual updates required |
| Scalability | Highly scalable, easy to add users | Limited scalability, requires installation for each user |
| Customization | Limited to features offered by the provider | High customization and integration potential |
When Should I Consider SaaS Over Stand-Alone Applications
SaaS is a perfect fit for companies that value flexibility, user-friendliness and the ability to access their software remotely. Also, if your business is one of those where there’s a team who all need to access the same software SaaS is obviously perfect. Finally, companies that don’t want to have to address the upfront payment associated with purchasing something new but would rather pay over time can benefit from a SaaS model.
If you’re a small marketing agency, and looking for a project management tool that all your team members can access from anywhere, you’ll do well with a SaaS offering like Trello or Asana. Your team can not only work together in real time, the software will grow with your business.
When to Use Stand-Alone Applications Instead of SaaS
Standalone applications are a good fit for businesses who want complete control over their own software and data, or need an app that can work off-line. If your group operates in an area with poor or no internet access, or if you handle very confidential information and would like to keep it all local - then a stand alone app is the way.
For instance, consider a graphic design agency that needs applications such as Adobe Photoshop installed on desktop machine for offline work. Design files themselves tends to be on the larger side, and it would be nice to work offline without relying on their cloud storage.
Conclusion
Which is better, SaaS or stand-alone programs? Depends on what you need from a program vs your business focus and preferences. While a SaaS is flexible, scalable, and easy to access, stand-alone applications give you control, offline access and deeper customizations. Once you know the pros and cons of each, you can choose what is right for your business.
