aaS (Everything as a Service) – the newest trend that is currently taking over the entire business world!
For so long, businesses have relied on multiple entities for their operations. However, things have changed! XaaS allows organizations to access a connected and unified platform. This term started becoming increasingly popular when the shift to software-based models began. So, what exactly is XaaS and how is it influencing the way our businesses operate?
What is XaaS?
XaaS – also known as Everything as a Service or Anything as a Service – refers to the idea that organizations can adopt the as-a-Service approach for… well, everything. In other words, XaaS represents a clear and connected business model where companies can develop horizontal solutions that can be spread across other departments and used however needed.
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Types of XaaS
XaaS platforms can include multiple as a Service technologies, such as:
- Software as a Service (SaaS): Google Workspace, Microsoft Office 365, and Salesforce.
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP).
- Platform as a Service (PaaS): Heroku, Microsoft Azure App Service, and Google App Engine.
- Database-as-a-Service (DBaaS): Amazon RDS, Google Cloud SQL, and Azure SQL Database.
- Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS): Amazon WorkSpaces, VMware Horizon Cloud, and Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops.
For example, let’s say that a user interaction is introduced into the company’s system. With an XaaS platform, this interaction allows the sales teams to analyze, monitor, and document that interaction. At the same time, that interaction can also be used by the marketing team to get feedback from the customer or even by customer service to manage possible issues.
But note that Everything as a Service platforms can go beyond digital-related platforms. From customer support in offline activities, such as food deliveries, to doctor appointments and on-demand medical providers, and even property and house searches – and well, everything.
What are the benefits of XaaS?
Like any other low-code/no-code automation platform, XaaS contributes to democratizing digital innovation. For this reason, XaaS empowers users and businesses of all sizes to use sophisticated platforms without needing technical expertise to use them.
So, how can XaaS platforms help our businesses?
- Flexibility: With XaaS, we can make the most of the latest technology and updates without being tied down to unnecessary features. This way, we can easily modify or implement the changes we want into our processes – or remove them altogether.
- Accessibility: As long as there is an internet connection (although sometimes not even that), we can access the platform. This level of accessibility allows us to be productive and responsive at any time – regardless of where we are.
- Cost Reduction: Because our businesses can become leaner, we no longer have to invest a lot of money in building the infrastructure, acquiring servers, or hiring an entire IT department. Instead, XaaS solutions simply allow us to use their services and integrate them into our processes.
- Boost Innovation and Grow Faster: According to McKinsey, organizations that implement cloud-based platforms can bring new opportunities and capabilities to their business models 20-40% more quickly. This is mostly because the access to high-tech functionalities is more immediate, allowing them to make decisions and improve their strategies much faster.
XaaS Example in Real Life
Salesforce is one of the most popular CRM platforms and a great example of XaaS. With Salesforce Suite, we can access a full range of CRM tools without dealing with complex installations or continuous maintenance. This way, we can focus on our tasks and needs while enjoying the advanced CRM capabilities that Salesforce offers.
Here are some examples of the largest XaaS Companies:
- Cisco Systems Inc.
- IBM Corporation
- Amazon Web Services
- Microsoft Corporation
- Google
- Orange Business Services
- Oracle Corporation
The Everything as a Service model provides companies with multiple options for their operations, and it’s no wonder it will only grow. So, read more about the XaaS trends in 2024 that will dominate the market.