Cloud-based servers allow organizations to access their network and data on the internet instead of having to manage large and unsightly physical servers. The cloud facilitates access to important data therefore improving user-friendly capabilities and enhanced productivity. Approximately 90% of companies currently use some form of cloud services, there are 3 main levels which an organization can adopt cloud services that increase based on sophistication of the platform.

Infrastructure as a Service

“Infrastructure as a service,” or “IaaS”, is the most basic cloud service. IaaS can be used to build and manage networks and data storage that can help companies with their transition to a virtual environment.  It’s typically referred to a ‘cloud storage’ and most often, IaaS is implemented for temporary or unexpected changes. IaaS users can access their networks through a dashboard or an Application Programming Interface (API) online.

Platform as a Service

“Platform as a Service,” or PaaS is the next step up from IaaS offering customers additional capabilities often by integrating with IaaS services. Using PaaS, customers can develop modules and applications themselves within their cloud infrastructure, this gives organizations complete control over the functionality of their software as well as complete responsibility over the security and operation of the apps developed.

Software as a Service

Software as a Service more commonly referred to as “SaaS,” is the most advanced of the three cloud services. SaaS customers can just log into their system online and access a comprehensively platform with a wide range of capabilities including communication and applications designed for specific business functions. SaaS is usually purchased on a subscription basis and implemented for a long-term period.

What are the benefits of choosing SaaS?

By 2021 73% of organizations indicated that all of their apps will be cloud based. According to Finance Online, 38% of businesses adopt SaaS platforms to enable disaster recovery and enhance business continuity planning. About 63% of companies say that cloud adoption facilitates digital transformation, and 70% of CIO’s cited agility and scalability as their motivation for implementing a cloud-based SaaS platform.

SaaS platforms provide property management companies software that’s designed for their specific needs with apps and tools that address the particular demands of property managers on the job while additionally offering remote accessibility matching the mobile nature of online property management.

SaaS requires less maintenance than IaaS and PaaS because the 3rd Party Provider is responsible for the development of applications and functionality. The main responsibility of SaaS customers is signing up for training to learn how to leverage the platform for the most efficiency. By understanding the various offerings of cloud services, organizations can select software the support their company’s individual goals.