Every technology passes through three Bsbubble, boom and bust. It looks like software as a service (SaaS) is on the threshold of a boom and vendors (big and small) are bullish on the market opportunity. According to SaaStream, a website that tracks the SaaS market, by 2012, 30% or more of all new business software will be deployed and delivered as SaaS. And 15% of the SaaS solution revenues will be accessed through the SaaS marketplace. With potential waiting in the wings, many vendors are trying to get an early mover advantage in the SaaS space. One such company is Chennai-based Ramco Systems, which has recently launched the countrys first SaaS-based OnDemand ERP suite.

According to company sources, Ramcos OnDemand ERP is a full-suite of web-enabled ERP that is available for an affordable subscription model. Companies can benefit from aspects like shortened implementation times and lower TCO. Before the formal launch of the product, Ramco has taken this approach to clients with its SaaS ERP framework and has already garnered 1,000 users across multiple verticals that include auto components, discrete manufacturing, trading, distilleries, electronics, textiles and chemicals.

PR Venketrama Raja, vice chairman and managing director, Ramco Systems, says: Traditional ERP implementations have been plagued by non-availability of skilled resources, long implementation times, and huge upfront investments. Now, with our OnDemand ERP available as a service, customers can completely focus on growing their business and stop worrying about managing an ERP.

Focused Offerings
Ramcos foray into SaaS is interesting, given the changing enterprise computing landscape wherein enterprise-wide solutions are getting pervasive across company sizessmall, mid, and large. Concepts like SaaS-based ERP take the ERP to the desktops of users with a highly user-friendly interface, which makes for easier adoption and greater flexibility. The company has remained focused on its core product offerings. Right from its Marshal version to eApplication suite to Ramco Virtual Works, its ERP framework has constantly evolved. By SaaS enabling its virtual works framework, Ramco clearly has an early mover advantage in this space.

It has to be seen how Ramco will now position its conventional ERP offerings. The company says that it will not conflict with its in-premise ERP offerings, and that the SaaS model is an extension of its virtual works framework. For companies that have conventional ERP, the on-demand version will be pitched for further geographical expansion. First-time ERP users can derive full advantages of an ERP suite without buying the software.

Quips Chandra Prabhakar, vice president, OnDemand ERP, Ramco Systems, The OnDemand ERP adapts to changes and eliminates the complexities of managing an ERP, allowing companies to focus on growing their core business. Ramco is positioning its SaaS ERP across segments and is bullish on its potential.

Shrikanth G
shrikanthg@cybermedia.co.in

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