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Saas vs. Private Cloud vs. On-Premises ERP Deployment – What if you could have it your way?

March 7, 2019 by Aaron Thomas
Audit & Accounting, Copeland Buhl, Information Systems, Technology Solutions

Implementing the right ERP system within your business can have a big impact on your productivity and bottom line, but selecting the right deployment method can be a challenge for decision-makers. Very few – if any – ERP providers offer multiple hosting options for their platform, often requiring organizations to choose between either SaaS, hosted, or on-premises models. But what if you had the option to choose between any of the three from the same ERP provider? With Acumatica, you can.

Here is a breakdown of the key differences between SaaS, private cloud, and on-premises ERP models and the benefits of each when partnering with Acumatica.

Saas (Software-as-a-Service)

The SaaS method of ERP deployment functions under a subscription model, in which the company pays a monthly or annual fee to use the software. There is no hardware required, and the company doesn’t own the server or the software. It’s also less costly due to the subscription model and is scalable to grow with your organization.

With Acumatica, SaaS deployment combines the benefits of enterprise-class solutions without the enterprise IT budget. The system is hosted on Amazon Web Service and can be accessed from any internet-connected device. Your business can pay as you go and scale the offering for your unique needs, without needing to manage hardware or maintain any software. SaaS provides a cost-effective, publicly hosted solution for businesses with minimal customization needs.

Private Cloud (Subscription)

Within the hosted ERP model, the software is installed on remote servers and managed by the ERP vendor. These servers are rented and don’t need to be maintained via your own IT resources. Security and backups are both managed by the hosting party, as well. Anyone within your organization connected to the internet will have access to the platform wherever they are, delivering optimal mobile accessibility. With Acumatica, you can decide where the software and data are hosted and when updates are applied. The hosted option is well-suited for those in heavily regulated industries who desire a private and secure platform.

On-Premises (Private Cloud Perpetual)

On-premises deployment is the most traditional of the three options and is similar to the private cloud method but utilizes on-site servers rather than having them located off-site. The software is purchased upfront from the vendor and entirely owned by the business, resulting in maximum customization and total control from the operating party. Your company’s IT department can receive support from Acumatica to implement and maintain the platform, but the software will ultimately be overseen and managed by your organization. The on-premises method has a lower long-term cost and is great for businesses that require many users and a wide range of customization options.

SaaS

Private Cloud

On-Premises

  • Public cloud subscription
  • No hardware required
  • Rented server and software
  • Limited customization
  • Lower upfront cost
  • Hosted by AWS
  • Private cloud subscription
  • Software installed on remote servers
  • Managed by ERP provider
  • Rented server
  • Optimal mobile accessibility
  • Private and secure
  • Private cloud perpetual
  • Most traditional of the three options
  • Server located on-site
  • Software purchased upfront
  • Maximum customization
  • Ongoing support from Acumatica
  • Lower long-term cost

Transferable deployment

With Acumatica, you are able to transfer your deployment method at any time based on your preference and on the needs of your business. If you initially decide to deploy within the SaaS model and then encounter scaled security and customization needs, you’re able to transfer to a hosted or on-premises solution without needing to implement an entirely new ERP system within your organization.

Connect your business with Copeland Buhl and Acumatica

Copeland Buhl is proud to be your Twin Cities Acumatica partner, allowing us to provide our clients with a full suite of integrated enterprise management applications to help your business grow. Everything from financials and distribution to manufacturing and project accounting is viewable in real-time to achieve a comprehensive view of your operation. Contact us today to learn about the many ways Acumatica and Copeland Buhl can provide your business with a competitive advantage—anytime, anywhere.