For companies considering cloud computing technologies, it is easy to get overwhelmed with the amount of information that is available. In our recent blog entitled “Is cloud computing for you?” we discussed that there are three main approaches to cloud computing: Platform-as-a-service (Paas), Infrastructure-as-a-service (Iaas) and Software-as-a-service (Saas). As Bundledocs uses a Software-as-a-service model, we will discuss this in more detail.

So what is Software as a service? CloudTweeks have defined Saas as “a method through which software related services are delivered from one point to another remotely or through internet alternatives”. Therefore, rather than relying on desktop software or traditional servers, software is hosted by a third party and can be accessed via an internet connection.

But what does this mean for the legal sector? In terms of legal software, most firms tend to follow a traditional software model. According to ‘The American Bar Association’ Attorneys traditionally purchase software by licence and install it on their computers. Any data created is then stored on the user’s computer and can be backed up to a firms file server.

In comparison Saas differs from this traditional method in a number of ways. Rather than installing software onto your computer, Saas allows users to access their software via a web browser over the internet. Any data stored is stored in the vendors data centre rather than on the user or firms computers.

For firms, Saas can offer a range of benefits when compared to a traditional software model. To view the “Top 5 business advantages of cloud computing” visit our recent blog article.