What is SaaS? Why should you hire us to help?
What is SaaS?
Remember the old days when you had to buy software in a box, install it on your computer, and manually update it every few months? Software as a Service (SaaS) changed all that. Think of SaaS like Netflix for business software – instead of buying DVDs, you pay a monthly subscription to access what you need through the internet. Commonly used SaaS products are: Gmail for email, Dropbox for file storage, and QuickBooks Online for accounting.
Small businesses love SaaS because it’s hassle-free. Users don’t have to download any software, they pay a subscription fee, and most SaaS applications can be accessed from anywhere. The beauty of SaaS is in its simplicity. A business uses the software while someone else handles all the technical stuff behind the scenes.
Why should small business owners use a Waxwing Business consultant for SaaS selection?
Quickly, small businesses can rack up all kinds of costs associated with the wrong or redundant SaaS software solutions. As a Waxwing Business consultant, I come across this issue every day in my work. A client is using multiple file storage options, two different email providers, and even more “small” subscriptions that go unused or under-utilized. This results in major financial loss when you add it up over a year.
In today's digital landscape, choosing the right software tools can make or break a small business. While SaaS solutions promise to streamline operations and boost productivity, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. Here's why working with a Waxwing Business consultant to select your SaaS stack might be one of the smartest investments you can make.
Cost Beyond the Price Tag
Initial subscription costs
Training and implementation expenses
Integration requirements
Potential customization needs
Hidden fees and scaling costs
Data migration expenses
Technical Considerations
Security compliance requirements
Integration capabilities with existing systems
Scalability limitations
Data backup and recovery options
Mobile accessibility
API availability and limitations
Why DIY SaaS Selection Often Falls Short
Time Constraints
Small business owners simply don’t have the time to work for themselves, focus on key operations, and also do research on the proper SaaS solutions.
Limited Point-of-View
Beyond that, most owners have difficulty assessing their needs, as their perspective can be too limited. A Waxwing Business consultant brings multiple perspectives to the table: productivity, finances, service standards, and marketing.
Expertise Gaps
In addition to time constraints, small business owners often have a lack of understanding surrounding the technical requirements, security features, and contract negotiation of SaaS solutions. Here, a Waxwing Business consultant can assist with proper assessment and negotiation while forecasting a business’ future needs.
The Consultant Advantage (We Are Good At What We Do!)
1. Expert Knowledge Base
Up-to-date understanding of the SaaS marketplace
Experience with multiple implementations
Knowledge of common pitfalls
Awareness of industry-specific requirements
Understanding of integration challenges
2. Time and Cost Savings
Reduced research time
Avoided implementation mistakes
Better negotiated contracts
Optimized software stack
Prevented redundant purchases
3. Strategic Planning
Long-term scalability assessment
Growth planning
Future-proofing recommendations
Change management strategies
Training requirement forecasting
Real Business Impact
Immediate Benefits
Faster implementation = $$
Reduced downtime = $$
Proper staff training = $$
Seamless integrations = $$
Clear ROI metrics = $$
Long-term Advantages
Scalable solutions = $$
Reduced technical debt = $$
Lower total cost of ownership = $$
Improved user adoption = $$
Better business continuity = $$
The ROI of Using a Consultant
Measurable Benefits for Small Businesses
Average 20-30% reduction in SaaS spending
40% faster implementation time
60% higher user adoption rates
25% lower training costs
50% reduction in integration issues
Hidden Value of Seeking Help
Avoided costly mistakes
Better vendor relationships
Optimized workflows
Enhanced security measures
Improved compliance
Red Flags That Signal You Need a Waxwing Business Consultant
You're considering multiple SaaS solutions simultaneously.
Your business handles sensitive data.
You need complex integrations between systems.
Your industry has specific compliance requirements.
You're planning significant growth or expansion.
Your current systems aren't meeting business needs.
In an increasingly complex SaaS landscape, the expertise of a consultant can be the difference between a successful digital transformation and a costly mistake. While it may seem like an additional expense, the right consultant will save your business money, time, and resources while setting you up for long-term success.
The key is viewing SaaS selection not as a one-time purchase decision but as a strategic investment in your business's future. With the right guidance, you can build a technology stack that not only meets your current needs but positions your business for sustainable growth.
