[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”669″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]One question which every entrepreneur will face when they are ready to deploy their SAAS solution is “Centralized or Decentralized?”
A Centralized solution is one in which all files are kept in one location (whether it is one giant file for all clients, or individual files for each client).
Decentralized means that once they have paid their subscription fee, they are free to take the application file and deploy it on their own servers.
There are advantages either way:
With a decentralized solution, the client assumes all costs and risks associated with using the application.
For the Centralized option, you have easy access to your creation and can maintain security and easy upgrades.
The disadvantages need to be considered as well:
For a decentralized solution, if they client has any trouble with their server, you may experience some client dissatisfaction with your application, even though the issues have nothing to do with your FileMaker application. You will also be at the mercy of their security. And when it is time to do any maintenance work, you will need to work through someone else’s server and hosting processes. If they have slow service, this will impact your maintenance costs.
However, with a centralized solution, although you will bear the costs of hosting, the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages, since you are in control of environment, security, and processes. Any extra costs can be rolled into the monthly subscription.
The primary problem with a centralized deployment is that some clients do not want their proprietary business data to be accessible to anyone in the cloud. Either through company policy which forbids it, or their own fears, they do not want to get hacked or have data stolen from them.
You will have to give consideration to these issues before you deploy your application.
Choose wisely; consider the industry in which you are working, and the primary concerns of your users.
I have found that a centralized deployment makes life a lot easier as the primary developer on an application. But your experience and needs may differ.
Best to you!
~ William T. Miller[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]