The way that organisations operate has changed hugely over the past two decades.
SAAS describes the accessing of software from a cloud provider over the internet. Rather than paying up front, the product is purchased with a continued license fee.
The ongoing payment covers support from a tech team or account manager which makes products more accessible.
This allows businesses not familiar with the ins and outs of the ever changing world of tech to access game changing tools.
A multitude of tools
When done well this can improve efficiency and prevent staff spending valuable time on tasks that can be sped up through automation.
Where do the risks lie?
Out of date software also presents security risks to your company as they may be more prone to cyber attacks.
Do you need it?
Retrain staff
If you’re not getting the best out of your tech, it might be because your team isn’t using it properly.
Get an understanding of the capabilities of the product and where the pain points are.
If it’s a lack of understanding, get in touch with the vendor and arrange a training session. Failing that tutorials are bound to exist in one form or another online.
Bin it
Sometimes you’re not using something because it isn’t necessary and the only option is to get rid of it.
Most tech products will have a fixed term so you’ll be unlikely to get out of it early.
It’s always worth checking the contract however as there may be break clauses which allow you an early exit. As a last resort you can try and get in touch with your vendor to make your case.
While you’re unlikely to get out early for free, there might be something you can work out with them.
Find something better
If the idea behind the tool is good but the actual product itself isn’t up to scratch, find a better option.
The world is awash with software and the chances are if you bought it off one company something similar exists.
Assess what went wrong with the last tool and work out whether any new alternatives are more suitable.
How to spot the best software
If you do decide to change providers, it’s important you pick something that works. The issue can be that it’s not always easy to tell.
Online review websites like Capterra can give a good picture, although they will rarely highlight issues with the product.
A personal recommendation from a trusted peer is always a good sign. Before taking out a license for a product it’s worth asking your network what they’re experiences are.
Why customer service is so important
A commitment to top rate customer service should be one of the things that you look for when choosing a Saas company.
It means that should you have issues there is a human on hand to help. Not just an out of date training manual.
Dedicated success reps also indicate a close relationship with their clients. This way you know suggestions are taken on board from the people who use the product.