idtplans Review is the perfect solution for budget minded agencies looking to take their permitting and plan review process online. We're able to provide enormous value with a tiny price tag because we Design, Develop, Integrate, Support, AND HOST the application.
Here are just a few of the many advantages that become available with a hosted approach.
1. Security – With a hosted solution, an applications security is continually monitored, managed, and updated by a group of trained professionals. With non-hosted systems, the applications security is the customer’s responsibility.
2. Redundancy – Hosted solutions utilize top-of-the-line servers and routers that are professionally maintained in a secure, dust free, air conditioned environment. Redundant connections to the internet, duel power feeds from separate substations, and diesel generator backup ensure 99.99% uptime.
3. Backups – With hosted solutions, backups and data recovery is managed by the software vendor. With non-hosted solutions, backups and data recovery is the responsibility of the customer.
4. Maintenance – With hosted software, all maintenance including bug fixes, security updates, etc are managed by a group of IT Professionals in real time. With non-hosted solutions, all hardware, software, and system maintenance is the responsibility of the customer. In addition, many non-hosted vendors require an annual service & maintenance contract in addition to the cost of the software.
5. Installation – With hosted solutions, installation is a non-issue. With non-hosted solutions, installing of the software is the responsibility of the customer and often very challenging.
6. Feature Upgrades – Most software companies are continuously upgrading their products. With hosted systems these upgrades are managed and released by the vendor. The code all lives in one place making it easy. With non-hosted systems, the responsibility falls on the customer. If the customer has made any source code changes, such upgrades can be nearly impossible and very expensive.
7. Initial Cost – Most hosted solutions have a low entry cost. Some non-hosted solutions also have a low cost. However, the time spent installing, configuring, and customizing non-hosted systems is significant, costing the customer thousands of unexpected dollars.
8. Time – With hosted systems, the client does not need to spend any time researching, maintaining, or implementing hardware or software as it relates to their business. Non-hosted systems on the other hand are just the opposite.
9. Support – Most hosted solutions come with unlimited support. Ironically, most non-hosted systems require more support and it is often less available or only available for a fee. In addition, hosted solutions provide unlimited support for the end users. With non-hosted solutions, the customer is responsible for 100% of the end user support.
10. Consistency – With hosted or Software as a Service Applications, the vendor will always be there. Revenue is predictable. With licensed systems, revenue is less predictable and there is a greater likelihood that the vendor may not be around in several years. Additionally, many customers have their webmasters install and customize their non-hosted system. If they sever ties with that webmaster, they are at a loss as to where to begin with managing the technology.