Ajax stands for “Asynchronous Javascript and XML”. Javascript is a programming language that provides the interactive features of Ajax. The asynchronous part of Ajax uses a piece of software written in eXtensible Markup Language (XML), that retrieves data from a web server only when it’s requested by the person viewing a page instead of all at once when a page is first loaded, as with conventional web pages.

Ajax works with most standard Web browsers and the Web server, unlike proprietary technologies for creating interactive Web applications that require additional software. From a technical perspective XML code that is used in concert with Ajax is not an industry standard however, the major browsers available in the market support Ajax-based pages.

Since the Application Framework, KiBS, supports Ajax all of the present and future application(s) produced are supported as well. This approach improves our time to market and the ability to deliver a dynamic offering more effectively.

The definition of Software as a Service is best described by IDC.

“SaaS refers to the ongoing support and network delivery of applications where the core value pertains to the maintenance and daily operation of software.” IDC continues in providing several key elements:

• SaaS includes the provisioning of network-based access to, and management of, a commercially available application.
• SaaS activities are managed from central locations rather than at each customer’s site. Customers access applications remotely via the web.
• SaaS activities are characteristically closer to a one-to-many delivery model than a one-to-one model. These include architecture, pricing, partnering, and software management characteristics.

This clear and fundamental explanation of SaaS is fairly rudimentary but these building blocks are why SaaS is truly impacting the global marketplace and making it so appealing and desired.

Today there is a disconnect between the cost of software and the value it provides. Having the ability for software to address customer experiences is critical in the software world and with SaaS delivery of applications this disconnect is being resolved. With SaaS, customers are paying for software via a subscription or annuity model which forces the providers to be accountable for demonstrating the value of their offerings in an on-going basis, therefore vested in the customer’s success long term.

Since the overall value of software extends beyond features and functions the customer experience is now taking precedence. Customers want to be heard and needs met, therefore open dialogue and communication is essential. This level of customer interaction allows SaaS offerings to evolve rapidly since updates and modifications are incorporated very quickly. If executed accordingly, SaaS builds a solid foundation between the vendor and client which increases the barrier to entry to competition as well as client turnover.

Studies have shown that SaaS adoption tends to be organic, so once a company adopts one SaaS application it is likely the company will expand by adding additional SaaS applications. There are several drivers causing this rapid expansion; major software upgrades, strict regulatory requirements (i.e. HIPPA), and the continued pursuit of minimizing operating expenses.

As the momentum for SaaS solutions continues to grow the relevancy of traditional software business models is being questioned. By working and engaging a company focused on SaaS, like Kyliptix Solutions, you have the ability to adopt this new delivery model fairly quickly.