The Benefits of Using a SaaS Hybrid Combining the Best of Both Worlds

12.01.2024

The Benefits of Using a SaaS Hybrid Combining the Best of Both Worlds

As technology evolves, businesses continue to look for ways to streamline their operations and improve efficiency. One way they do this is by implementing software as a service (SaaS) solutions. These cloud-based applications allow users to access software from anywhere with an internet connection and have become increasingly popular in recent years.

However, there are limitations to using SaaS exclusively. Issues with data security and compliance requirements can make it challenging for some organizations to fully adopt a cloud-based solution. That’s where a SaaS hybrid comes in. In this article, we’ll explore what a SaaS hybrid is and why it might be the perfect solution for your business needs.

What is a SaaS Hybrid?

A SaaS hybrid is essentially a combination of SaaS and on-premises software. It integrates the benefits of both solutions to create a cohesive system that meets all your organization’s unique requirements. By combining the two, you can leverage the strengths of each delivery method while mitigating their weaknesses.

The intent of Cloud Paks is to supply a pre-configured, containerized and examined answer that's licensed by IBM. This strategy is supposed to eradicate lots of the unknowns in deploying workloads within the cloud. Whereas we expect it is a nice strategy to simplification, there's nonetheless a major quantity of customization that must be made for every occasion of the answer that can be distinctive to a person group’s wants. As such, a good portion of the Cloud Pak deployment should be customized applied by IBM providers. That in and of itself isn't essentially an issue, however it does imply that this isn't a easy “off the shelf” answer that may be applied simply by inside IT staffs in most organizations.

There are many variations of hybrid solutions. Some involve running certain applications on-premises, while others use cloud-based storage or processing power for specific functions. The key is finding the right balance for your organization’s needs.

“An enormous want to maneuver to the cloud, and stress from strains of enterprise to maneuver to the cloud, have created an expertise hole that has led to severe missteps and compelled IT groups to repatriate workloads that they had put within the cloud again into the information middle,” says Scott Sinclair, senior analyst at IT analysis agency ESG. “IT’s degree of competence, expertise, and training in the way to combine with the cloud is woefully insufficient.”

How Does a SaaS Hybrid Work?

A SaaS hybrid works by creating a comprehensive infrastructure that includes both cloud-based and on-premises components. It allows you to store sensitive data and applications on your premises while taking advantage of cloud computing resources for other software solutions.

The hybrid model offers more customization than traditional SaaS applications. You can tailor the system to meet individual organizational needs, including security requirements and regulatory compliance. Additionally, you can control which data is stored locally versus in the cloud to maintain greater control over sensitive information.

Automation is a key driver in Ceridian's general cloud imaginative and prescient and technique. "It is actually the muse and the basic step that is required as an entry for us to have the ability to show out our idea," says Alan Segal, Ceridian's senior vp of enterprise know-how. "It is important within the sense that we're driving towards push-button solutioning."

Automation permits groups to concentrate on significant jobs as a substitute of on routine, repetitive duties. Whereas getting crew members onboard with automation requires a while and convincing, Segal says he has encountered little opposition to the know-how. "Getting groups to actually settle for and perceive the worth and the profit...hasn't been a big problem," he says.

Automation helped Ceridian deal with modifications that the COVID-19 pandemic dropped at its operations, for instance. "The power to handle your whole operation remotely from wherever you might be, as a result of you do not have to fret about your campus, is an important step," Perlman says. Due to its automation instruments, Ceridian was in a position to transition, nearly instantly, to 100% distant operation. "There was no downtime, and no impression to our clients as a result of we ready," he says.

The Benefits of a SaaS Hybrid

Increased Security and Control One of the most prominent benefits of using a SaaS hybrid is improved security and control. By maintaining some applications on-premises, you retain more control over data and can ensure that sensitive information remains secure. Additionally, you have the ability to customize security protocols to meet your specific needs.

Cost-Effective A SaaS hybrid can be a cost-effective solution for businesses. This delivery model allows organizations to utilize cloud-based resources for less critical functions while maintaining control over mission-critical applications through on-premises hosting.

Enhanced Flexibility A SaaS hybrid provides greater flexibility than traditional SaaS solutions. The ability to scale up or down as needed, switch between cloud and on-premises hosting, and tailor the system to organizational needs offers increased agility.

Improved Performance By leveraging the strengths of both cloud-based and on-premises systems, a SaaS hybrid can improve overall performance. For example, time-consuming processes can be run locally, while large data sets can be processed in the cloud.

Better Compliance Certain industries, such as healthcare and finance, have strict regulations regarding data privacy and security. A SaaS hybrid allows organizations to maintain compliance by keeping certain data on-premises while utilizing cloud-based resources for less sensitive functions.

How to Use a SaaS Hybrid

Before implementing a SaaS hybrid, it’s essential to evaluate your organizational needs thoroughly. Consider which functions require more security and control versus those that can be hosted in the cloud. Then, determine which applications would benefit from cloud computing resources and which should remain on-premises.

Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure that all components of the system are compatible and integrate seamlessly. A successful SaaS hybrid must be designed with scalability, security, and interoperability in mind.

Examples of SaaS Hybrid Implementations

One example of a SaaS hybrid implementation is Microsoft Office 365. The system allows users to access cloud-based versions of popular applications like Word and Excel while maintaining on-premises control over email and other sensitive data.

Another example is IBM’s Cloud Pak for Data. This platform combines cloud-based analytics with on-premises data hosting to provide businesses with a comprehensive, secure solution for managing their data.

Comparing SaaS Hybrid to Other Solutions

While traditional SaaS solutions offer many benefits, they may not be the best fit for all organizations. Companies that require greater control over data or have strict compliance requirements may find a SaaS hybrid more suitable. In contrast, businesses that prioritize flexibility and scalability might prefer a fully cloud-based solution.

On-premises hosting, while secure, can be costly and challenging to scale. A SaaS hybrid offers a middle ground that allows organizations to maintain some control over their data while taking advantage of the benefits of cloud computing.

Advice for Businesses Considering a SaaS Hybrid

If you’re considering implementing a SaaS hybrid solution, it’s crucial to work with experienced professionals who can guide you through the process. Start by carefully evaluating your organizational needs and determining which applications would benefit from cloud resources.

Additionally, consider the expertise and experience of potential vendors. A SaaS hybrid requires careful planning and coordination between cloud and on-premises components, so it’s essential to choose a provider that can offer seamless integration and ongoing support.

Finally, it’s crucial to ensure that all security protocols are in place to protect sensitive data. By working with experts in both cloud and on-premises solutions, you can create a cohesive system that meets your unique organizational needs.

FAQs

What is the difference between SaaS and a SaaS hybrid?

SaaS (software as a service) is a delivery model where software applications are hosted in the cloud and accessed over the internet. In contrast, a SaaS hybrid combines both cloud-based and on-premises software to create a more customizable system that allows organizations to maintain control over sensitive data.

Is a SaaS hybrid more expensive than traditional SaaS?

While a SaaS hybrid may require additional infrastructure and resources to maintain on-premises applications, it can be a cost-effective solution for organizations that require greater control over sensitive data. By utilizing cloud-based resources for less critical functions, businesses can save money while maintaining a high level of security.

Can a SaaS hybrid be customized to meet specific organizational needs?

Yes, one of the primary benefits of a SaaS hybrid is that it offers greater flexibility and customization than traditional SaaS solutions. Organizations can tailor the system to meet their unique requirements, including security protocols and compliance regulations.

How does a SaaS hybrid improve performance?

A SaaS hybrid leverages the strengths of both cloud-based and on-premises systems to improve overall performance. Time-consuming processes can be run locally, while large data sets can be processed in the cloud, resulting in faster and more efficient operations.

What industries can benefit from using a SaaS hybrid?

Industries that have strict data privacy and compliance regulations, such as healthcare and finance, can benefit from using a SaaS hybrid. The system allows these organizations to maintain control over sensitive data while taking advantage of cloud-based resources for less critical functions.

Conclusion

As businesses continue to rely more on technology, it’s essential to find solutions that offer both security and flexibility. A SaaS hybrid combines the benefits of both cloud-based and on-premises software to create a customizable system that meets unique organizational needs.

By utilizing cloud-based resources for less critical functions and maintaining on-premises control over sensitive data, businesses can save money while maintaining control over their most valuable information. With careful planning and expert guidance, a SaaS hybrid can be a game-changer for organizations looking to streamline operations and improve efficiency.