Software as a Service, commonly referred to as SaaS, is a cloud-based offering that enables users to access a vendor’s centrally hosted software licensed and delivered through a subscription model. It’s one of the more intriguing alternatives to the traditional model of standard installation, building the server, and configuring applications, Instead, all applications are within the cloud network to be accessed remotely via an application programming interface (API) or the web. SaaS frequently usues plug-in capabilities to improve its functionalities
Because of its advantages, a growing number of organizations have begun to use it. But what do plug-ins have to do with it? In this article, we’ll discuss what plug-ins are and why plugin capabilities are so crucial for companies that depend on SaaS.
What Are Plug-Ins And What Are Plug-In Capabilities?
Plug-ins are essentially software add-ons installed on programs to enhance their capabilities. One example is streaming videos from a website. Without the essential plug-in, the browser may not be able to understand how it can play the desired video. It can also enable you to perform specific functions relevant to your business, such as leveraging specific SaaS tools to address your company’s ITGC compliance needs.
What is Software as a Service?
As its name suggests, SaaS is a type of business model for software distribution that provides customers access to programs and applications over the World Wide Web instead of their acquisition through the installation of physical media. Their products are hosted centrally by the provider, who updates and maintains the programs automatically. Users can access them via mobile and web browsers.
Software as a Service has undoubtedly revolutionized software delivery. However, before its introduction, many organizations struggled to incorporate new applications into their operations. Whether it’s training, custom development, complicated on-site installations, or prolonged sales processes, it could take a long time before workers can effectively use new tools. However, through SaaS, you can do it quickly.
Benefits of SaaS?
It’s not surprising that SaaS is becoming commonplace in the business environment. After all, it does boast advantages that other delivery models lack. But if you aren’t convinced that it can impact your company positively, here are a few benefits of software as a Service you should know.
Quick access
The primary difference between SaaS from the standard model is that the application is configured and installed already. All that’s needed is server provisioning, for instance, within the cloud, and the program should be available for use immediately. This minimizes the time that it would take to manually install, configure, and avoid the potential problems that could present themselves during the deployment of the software.
Lowers cost
Another benefit of software as a service is lowered operational costs because they generally reside in multi-tenant or shared environments, wherein the software and hardware license prices are lower when compared to the standard delivery model. It also enables organizations to scale their businesses rapidly since they’re given access to the software they would otherwise have had to pay a considerable amount of money for or could not afford.
Integration
More often than not, it’s possible to integrate SaaS solutions with other software within its environment. You won’t have to make any additional server purchases; you’ll only need to enable the product. Moreover, you’re given the flexibility when scaling your SaaS utilization based on your organization’s current needs.
Upgrades
Through SaaS, the providers automatically upgrade solutions as soon as they’re available. The effort and costs associated with new releases and upgrades are virtually non-existent since you are not forced to purchase packages and have them installed by an expert if they require specialized services.
Simple to use
SaaS products are generally simpler to use because they already come with the best samples and practices. Users can do proofs-of-concept while testing the software functionalities or new features quickly. Also, you’ll have multiple instances with various versions to ensure a smooth migration. Even with larger environments, the software can be tested with the SaaS without making considerable time, money, or effort. Lastly, it lends a business more credibility because most consumers today tend to trust companies at the forefront of technology than those at the back. In other words, you’ll be able to draw in more customers and generate more sales with SaaS.
Importance of Plug-Ins to SaaS
Now that you know what plug-ins are and how they’re used for applications within a cloud-based environment, we’ve laid out some of the reasons why they’re so crucial to those relying on SaaS for business operations.
Improves extensibility and customizability
One of the advantages of plug-ins is that they can extend functionality. Also, you’re able to expand the customizability without needing to access, add, or replace any existing source codes. As a result, they make it possible to maximize the potential of applications quickly and with ease.
Minimizes upgrades’ impact
Another benefit of plug-in capability for SaaS is a significant reduction in the effect of upgrades. Since most plug-ins are generally independent, there’s no need to break the source code to accommodate their addition to the architecture or application. And the absence of dependency means all upgrades enable users to view their customizations and take advantage of any functionalities introduced in the upgrades.
Provides transparency with the customization code
With the default code separate from the customization code, it’s possible to view just the changes in customization to aid users in accomplishing their objectives without having to check everything as a single file.
Facilitates customization portability
Once plug-ins have been deployed successfully, you can easily port them to different machines. This means you can effectively reduce the time it takes to move customizations from your development to production environments.
Simplifies customization management
Self-sufficiency is one of the qualities of a plug-in. Thus, it’s possible to deploy customizations with the addition of plug-ins alone.
No one can deny how advantageous and essential SaaS is in modern business. However, plug-in capabilities are needed to reap the full benefits of this approach. Without them, enhancing existing applications quickly and efficiently may not be possible. Therefore, it’s a factor worth considering before you make any commitments.