Custom Website vs SaaS Solutions

It is no secret that Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions have created significant shifts 

in how we do virtually everything. They are used in our everyday business and personal lives. SaaS can also solve a lot of problems and streamline pr

ocesses, but is it the right solution for you and your business? Let’s break down what exactly a SaaS-based solution is and if it is a better fit for you vs. a custom website solution.

Software as a Service (SaaS) 

SaaS is a type of software solution that allows data to be accessible from any platform with an internet connection and a web browser. Commonly, users will create an account and then subscribe to a service that is provided through a website. A SaaS solution is a cost-effective way to leverage technology for a fraction of the cost. 

Other SaaS benefits:

• It reduces the time spent on installation and customization and can eliminate the issues that get in the way of the software implementation.
• SaaS solutions exist in cloud environments that are flexible and have compatibility with other SaaS offerings.
• SaaS solutions are easy to use.
• The costs and effort required with updates and fresh releases are lower.
• Provided ongoing support/development.

Ironistic utilizes SaaS solutions in our everyday communication, tasking, and engagements. For example, G Suite is a favored application that provides our team access to Gmail, Calendar, Hangouts, Google Drive, Sheets, Docs, Forms, Slides, and several other apps that allow us to produce in-depth strategies, manage our schedules and collaborate with teams and clients.

A SaaS solution we have been offering to our clients is accessiBe. This is a tool that makes web accessibility easy and affordable. By adding the accessiBe overlay to your website, you will instantly address ADA and 508 (and more!) compliance requirements without the need to make any ongoing costly adjustments to your website’s code. You can learn more about 508 compliance here. 

Another example of a SaaS solution is our IronCurrent product, which allows credit unions to upgrade their online presence with advanced, pre-built website templates. IronCurrent offers three tiers as well as a la carte features, so you can choose the right plan for you and your website.

Custom Website Solutions 

A custom website solution is a type of application specifically developed for a designated user or organization. Typically, it will result in the most efficient business organization, as it can provide support for the specific needs of the business, which may not be accessible in other software applications and will provide better efficiency or better satisfaction to customers.

Other custom website benefits:

• Allows businesses to seamlessly add and remove features as the company grows.
• Custom solutions are more flexible.
• Allows you to build on your brand through your platform.
• Don’t have to compromise your processes to fit the solution.
• Custom solutions typically come with in-depth organization-specific training.

An example of a multi-custom solution engagement is the strategic collaboration Ironistic and CGA executed that resulted in 3 launched websites, (Common Ground Alliance, Call811, and The CGA Conference & Expo 2021 microsite), hosting migrations, designs for other platforms, and brainstorming sessions for evolution.

Another client, PowerYoga, teamed up with Ironistic to enhance their website user experience for ease of use for customers, grow their client base, and increase their community engagement. The rebuild of their website, increase in social media network referrals, and optimization of their various external platforms has resulted in an increase in users and membership subscriptions. Visit our portfolio to view other custom solutions we have made for our clients.

So, which solution is for you?

Ultimately, both SaaS Solutions and Custom Website Solutions present feasible options. When considering potential solutions, it is crucial to evaluate them from both sides of the development spectrum and choose the option that best fits the company’s needs and requirements.

Small, newly established businesses with only basic requirements may find SaaS solutions suitable.

For companies that have been operating for a while, custom software may be needed to assist in the growth of their business. In order to achieve the desired outcome, first, determine the objective of the software and how much customization it requires. 

Contact us or visit IronCurrent.com to learn more about SaaS and Custom Website solutions and determine which one is the best choice for you!