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How Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) is changing the security landscape
Have you noticed how much you are involved with computers, servers, and software when it comes to CCTV and access control solutions? It makes one wonder: are you in the security industry or the computer and software business? Servers, networks, software licenses, and commissioning are now a major component of every system sale. The physical security industry is not alone; many other industries are dealing with this same issue.
March 13, 2008 By JF Champagne
Web-hosted—or Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)—solutions provide a
compelling alternative by eliminating the many hurdles of traditional
software-based solutions. SaaS is a subscription-based service that
enables any web browser to use an application hosted on a provider’s
website, instead of installing servers and loading workstations with
application-specific software.
With a growing number of systems to support, IT personnel are
increasingly not able to provide the appropriate level of support
required to install, back up, patch, or upgrade an access control or
CCTV system. This is why corporate customers looking to “farm out”
applications are embracing the SaaS model, as are end-users without
adequate IT staff. Shifting to such a model enables them to focus on
their core business while reducing Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).
When deploying software-based solutions, you and your customers must consider:
• Cost of hardware including computers and servers
• Software licences
• Backup and software update procedures
• Security patch management
On the other hand, SaaS provides an easy–to-deploy and easy-to-use
solution since there is no software to load and it doesn’t matter what
type of computer or operating system you use.
For our industry, the growing popularity and effectiveness of SaaS
means easier solutions to deploy for CCTV, access control, and
security. With the power of the web, users can access information
anywhere, anytime. New software revisions and new features are
automatically available and the cumbersome chore of constant back-ups
is now history. More importantly, Software as a Service allows you to
easily monitor and manage your customers’ systems while generating new
sources of recurring revenues.
One important key to your future success will be dealing less with software and more with security.
Salut!
JF Champagne is the Canadian Sales Manager for Brivo Systems LLC, a
manufacturer of web based and web hosted access control. JF can be
reached at jf.champagne@brivo.com or (416) 238-5606
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