Cloud software, often referred to as Software as a Service (SaaS), is a relatively new software distribution model that has become extremely popular within the last couple of years. In a cloud software model, vendors or service providers host their applications online and allow people to use the software through a monthly subscription, rather than paying full sticker price to own a copy of the software.
This model comes with several inherent advantages, the biggest of which is flexibility. When you own a copy of a program, that application is then bound to the computer you installed it on. However, when you become a subscriber to a cloud software service, you are able to access the software from anywhere with an internet connection. This increases mobility and accessibility, which is especially important for larger companies or companies whose employees regularly work remotely.
Today, there are a wide variety of different applications available in a cloud software model. Here are a few of the most popular:
- Salesforce (www.salesforce.com): Salesforce offers a customer relationship management (CRM) product that gives companies an ability to connect to their customers in new, much-needed ways. As a form of CRM software, its primary elements include sales force automation, opportunity management, growth prediction, development and maintenance of client relationships, direct online communications and other services to help create a stronger overall customer experience.
- Office365. There are so many businesses that regularly use Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and more. Now, Microsoft packages those services into Office365, a subscription-based cloud software model allowing people to get different levels of online access to these products.
- Adobe Cloud. Adobe has put many of its most popular features into a cloud-based model. The Adobe Creative Cloud, for example, contains such programs as PhotoShop, LightRoom, Premiere Pro, After Effects, Illustrator and more. Adobe’s establishment of a cloud-based software model has been one of the biggest influences in it becoming such a popular method of software distribution.
- SugarCRM. Another CRM system, SugarCRM allows for mobile CRM, social CRM, customer support, marketing campaigns, salesforce automation and other elements. SugarCRM is one of the more popular CRM tools available on the market, with will more than a million active users.
- Microsoft Dynamics Exchange. Microsoft now allows users to set up their Dynamics CRM online. When used in conjunction with Office 365, users can route CRM email through Exchange Online. The result is a more streamlined CRM experience.
Fidelity Capital offers leasing and financing services to help you get set up with the cloud software of your choice. For more information about the benefits of this model and how to get started, contact our team today.