On-Premise vs Cloud Software in Field Service Management

So, you’re weighing your options between on-premise vs cloud software. Maybe you’re a pen-and-paper operation or perhaps your field service business still uses desktop-based on-premise software.

Does the thought of upgrading to cloud-based software sound intimidating? Let’s dispel some of the rumors, and set the record straight on the benefits of embracing the cloud for your business.

The future of field management solutions is cloud-based software, with features like:

• Exceptional software support
• Encrypted data storage
• Anywhere availability
• Routine updates

You may have heard of the term SaaS, it stands for Software as a Service. This classification covers most cloud-based software packages. This software type can catapult your service business into the future, helping you serve your customers better and save your staff time every single day.

It may be difficult to know which is the best option for you, since both software types are common in field service management. Is it worth switching from on-premise to cloud-based? Let’s explore:

On-Premise vs Cloud Software

What are the specific key differences between newer cloud-based SaaS and the classic on-premise software packages? We will compare the two solutions side-by-side. Plus, we’ve created a one-pager to present the differences in an easy-to-reference chart:

Data and Document Security

• Cloud: Data is encrypted and stored in a secure off-site digital location, commonly referred to as the cloud. This makes your sensitive information more difficult for hackers to access. If one of your devices is ever compromised, data is easier to recover if it’s stored in the cloud.
• On-Premise: Data is often stored on one or two computers onsite, which allows the user to have complete ownership of their data. However, data stored solely on local devices may be susceptible to hacks, breaches, or data corruption. Even the accidental soda spill could be devastating to your data!

Software Updates

• Cloud: Software can automatically refresh with the latest technology updates, requiring little or no effort from the user.
• On-Premise: Regular updates to your system may be costly and could take time and effort for your staff to install.

Data Accessibility

• Cloud: With its anywhere availability, both employees in the office and in the field can access data like customer history and tech schedules at any time from anywhere with a signal. Instant data syncing allows everyone to see the same information on their computer, tablet or phone.
• On-Premise: Most on-premise solutions are only accessible via specific computers at the office. So, the office manager must communicate changes and new information to technicians manually. This often results in additional time spent troubleshooting, which can ultimately result in misunderstandings and errors.

Software Scalability

• Cloud: It’s easy to add (or remove) user accounts and tailor your software package to fit your company’s growth and needs.
• On-Premise: Since on-premise solutions are often only accessible in the confines of your office, adding personnel may require more calls and texts between office management and the field.

Internet Connectivity

• Cloud: Software needs a reliable internet connection across devices to share information and sync with the cloud.
• On-Premise: This solution may not need the internet to complete day-to-day operations, allowing for flexibility if the internet is unavailable. However, communicating data or job changes may require additional staff support to keep all members of the team updated.

Software Developer Support

• Cloud: If you request assistance, the cloud-based software support team can often quickly access your software’s backend to assist in solving any issues that may arise. Also, the software regularly receives updates. This allows software developer support to easily find and correct any problems within the program.
• On-Premise: Troubleshooting on-premise software means spotty support. Many desktop-based software packages might not allow access to your software through the backend, since it cannot be accessed via the cloud. And since the software is not as frequently updated as the cloud-based alternative, it may take longer for them to resolve an issue… if the support team can even access the software.

Documentation and Organization

• Cloud: Go paperless by uploading documents into the software to store them securely in the cloud. No more paperwork cluttering your office. Do away with your rows of file cabinets stuffed with customer files, invoices and service agreements.
• On-Premise: You may struggle with some on-premise software solutions that cannot store documents of different file types. And while some desktop solutions might allow you to store most documents, they might not include the ability to back them up in a secure, encrypted manner. Leaving you vulnerable to hacks, file corruption or accidental deletion.

Download the one-pager below for a quick-reference side-by-side comparison of on-premise vs cloud-based software!

Choose the Software That’s Right for You

Ultimately, the choice between on-premise vs cloud software is up to you. We’ve shown the benefits and drawbacks of both options above. It all depends on how you decide to incorporate software into your business operations.

Cloud-based field service software offers more flexibility, functionality and streamlined support. However, on-premise software may be better for those who either do not have a strong internet connection or don’t need software support with world-class data security.

Want to learn more about how the best cloud-based software has the power to TRANSFORM your field service business? Book a free FieldEdge demo today!