SaaS, also known as software on demand, is the delivery of software applications, services and support via the Internet. These offerings are specifically designed for multiple use and access via the Web, where previously software was designed for single users, resided on the client’s server and was paid for on a licence basis.

Microsoft recognises that this represents a revolution in the way you provide your services to end users. The Microsoft SaaS Incubation Center Program can help you by cutting the cost and complexity of delivering your software solutions, and moving to this new business model.

Working with 7global as part of the Program ensures you have a secure and reliable SaaS provision infrastructure. Then key distribution channels will enable you to expand your product offering to your existing customers – and give you the valuable new contacts you need to grow your business.

Whether you need help with SaaS technology itself, or with meeting the business challenges, 7global will provide you with answers. Architecture Design Sessions (ADSs) and Business Development Sessions (BDSs) ensure that your applications and business models are geared up to start the changeover. Depending on what stage you have reached in preparation, you can choose the sessions that suit your needs best.

BT has aligned with Microsoft’s SaaS strategy to form BT Applications Marketplace, which gives you a distribution channel for your SMB SaaS solutions. This service allows you to push your services within an online marketplace that BT will then market to its SMB customers. Signing up to BT Applications Marketplace also allows you to build a ‘Tradespace’ – a sales site that will let you advertise applications within the Marketplace.

You also benefit from the Microsoft SaaS On-Ramp Program, which gives you a range of benefits and resources to help you take advantage of the SaaS opportunity, including special licensing pricing during your first twelve months in the program.

As well as Microsoft architectural and hosting guidance for deploying software as a service, you can also access a wealth of marketing and sales resources available through the Microsoft Partner Program.

SaaS is also good news for hosting service providers: Windows-Based Hosting enables us to lower operational costs while increasing average revenue per user (ARPU) through the deployment of new services.

The solution includes best practices, tools, scripts, and code samples to help service providers efficiently deploy and operate hosted offerings on the Windows platform.