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Hosted Applications — SaaSOverviewParallels ProductsCustomer SpotlightsThe software-as-a-service (SaaS) distribution model utilizes the internet for on-demand application delivery. SaaS applications are hosted and run by cloud services providers, saving the end user the upfront investment in software purchases and the ongoing upkeep required with software maintenance and the capital to invest in servers to run them. Businesses use a pay-as-you-go method (typically monthly) for SaaS applications allowing them to save their capital for core business functions. As a cloud services provider, you can earn a percentage of the monthly licensing fees when you partner with an independent software vendor (ISV) for hosting and application delivery. In addition to increasing average revenue per user (ARPU), offering hosted applications helps you differentiate yourself and attract new customers. As you grow your service portfolio, you grow your revenue stream and expand your channel reach. Vertical targeted bundles including applications are much more successful versus infrastructure-based bundles. Hosted ISV applications suited to the SaaS model include collaboration software and business applications such as e-commerce, customer relationship management, human resources, accounting, video conferencing, web content management and e-mail. Parallels virtualization and automation solutions enable cloud services providers and ISVs to deliver web applications, multi-tenant applications, and traditional single instance applications without significant integration or development. The Application Packaging Standard (APS) allows ISVs to package their application for use by millions of business customers who utilize an APS compliant control panel. The Parallels Operation Automation SaaS module automates the management of hosted applications to automate delivery and reduce cost. This automation enables you to scale across your customer base for higher ARPU, and allows end users to leverage control panels to minimize manual interactions with the cloud services provider. Using the Parallels SaaS platform, cloud services providers can offer a variety of application types including:
Web applications are deployed in the shared hosting platform and are managed by either Parallels Operations Automation or Parallels Plesk Panel, while traditional applications are deployed in a Parallels Virtuozzo Containers virtual environment. Clients can easily install applications that are packaged inside a Virtuozzo Container template. For lower scale deployments PPP also supports the APS standard and delivery of SaaS and customer. Additionally, the Parallels Automation application vault allows customers to configure and deploy applications into a web directory.
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