PaaS or platform as a service is a cloud computing model where a third party delivers the software and hardware tools the user needs over the internet. Most of the tools provided are needed for the development of the applications.

A platform as a service provider also hosts the software and hardware on its own infrastructure, which means users do not have to have their own in-house team to run new applications and software. However, it also isn’t meant to completely replace a user’s entire IT infrastructure for software development.

Using PaaS

PaaS has delivery through public, private, or hybrid clouds. In addition to this, other PaaS services may include information security, database security, development team collaboration, web service integration, and application design/development.

The Pros

Platform as a Service cloud is generally used for the convenience and simplicity it provides its users. Most of the infrastructure and IT services are supplied, and users can access their information from a web browser from anywhere and at any time. You can also eliminate some expenses because you don’t have to have traditional on-premises hardware.

The Cons

Infrastructure challenges may be a downside of PaaS because its performance depends on the company’s infrastructure. Additionally, the user is also largely dependent on the vendor’s infrastructure and software. However, the cloud offers easy accessibility, pay-per-use, reliability, and data control.

Some disadvantages of the cloud may include restricted or limited flexibility, ongoing costs, security, and vendor lock-in.

Three Service Models of Cloud Computing

Overall, there are three service models of cloud computing: IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS. IaaS refers to the cloud computing infrastructure like the servers and storage, all of which are managed by a cloud vendor. SaaS refers to the full applications being hosted in the cloud and also maintained by the vendor.

• SaaS applications often includes QuickBooks Online
• PaaS is middleware, scaling, and an operating system and includes applications like the Google App Engine and Microsoft Azure.
• IaaS is considered more of a raw compute resource

The goal of any PaaS provider is to create an environment that supports a more efficient and cost-effective process for both the creation and deployment of different high-quality applications for the business. These applications are also designed for use in both public or private cloud environments.

Some may mistakenly believe that SAP only provides software for larger businesses and corporations. However, this is not the case.

SAP Business One is also suitable for small and mid-market ERP offerings. You can give your small to mid-sized business access to enterprise-grade resources at an affordable cost.

SAP is global, but that does not mean that only larger enterprises can take advantage of its benefits and everything it offers. SAP Business One can help you manage and even scale your business while overcoming operational challenges you may face.

Here are some benefits for SMBs of having SAP Business One on a cloud.

Great Solution at a Great Price

With SAP Business One on a cloud for SMBs, you are gaining access to a great solution for streamlining all of your business processes at a great and affordable price.

Some smaller businesses have operational requirements that can be just as complex as larger businesses in some cases. Having access to an ERP system that provides analytics, management, and other solutions in one integrated solution is always a plus.

Improved Financial Visibility

When you have data spread across multiple spreadsheets, it can be hard to stay organized and have quick access to the information and data you need in real-time.

When you connect all your financial operations and integrate them with the other key business processes you have, you can improve several aspects of your SMB, including inventory management, purchasing, and sales.

You can also choose which employees you wish to grant specific access to so they have the data they need to complete their job. Not every employee needs to have access to every aspect of the business.

Improved Processes

Even for a smaller to mid-sized business, it can be challenging to keep up with vendor quotes, supplies, inventory, and payments. With SAP Business One on a cloud, you can gain more visibility when it comes to these processes so that you can gain better control over your pay cycle, receipts, invoices, payments, and so much more.

Anticipate Customer Needs

Another benefit for SMBs who choose SAP Business One on a cloud is the chance to integrate your sales and customer relationship management. You will be able to track the progress of every sale from beginning to end. You can then manage your customer relationships and marketing with just one single platform, streamlining these processes. With SAP Business One on a cloud, all your data and valuable information is in one place and is easy to access.