By James Sale   Wed, Oct 1, 2008

For a copy of this report, email info@workforcebr.com.

Software as a Service, often referred to as SaaS, has been available for over a decade, but has only seen wide spread development and deployment by organizations over the last few years. Part of the reason for this, is that software firms have only recently fully embraced the concept of one software application version for all of the customers. This is generally referred to as a multi-tenet architecture. The benefits for the customers of these vendors is exponential in the form of more stable software, rapid feature and functionality deployments through upgrades, and reduced costs associated with overall fees and ongoing support. That combined with the usual efficiencies and benefits gained from the use of technology is a path to success if the selection, implementation and refinement of the system is managed properly.

Based on the observation of hundreds of software selections, monitoring implementations and analyzing and reviewing ongoing system maintenance and refinement, it is clear that organizations that are successful with SaaS, follow a relatively consistent approach. That approach has been outlined in this document in the form of 12 specific steps that provide guidance and instructions for developing an appropriate strategy and plan for managing your SaaS review, purchase, implementation and ongoing system refinement.

This report provides detailed steps to successful SaaS usage:

1. Establish Business Goals
2. Know the Value of Reporting, Tracking & Analysis
3. Technology You Already Own!
4. Have a Technology Strategy
5. Build a Business Process or Refine the One You Have
6. Planning for Resources & Understanding Critical Decisions
7. Develop Your Selection Criteria
8. Focus On the “Best” Vendors
9. Conduct Functional & Technical Review
10. Select Final Vendor & Negotiate Contracts
11. Implementation & Team Assignments
12. Track, Maintain, Refine & Communicate                                                                                          

For a copy of this report, email info@workforcebr.com.