Software as a Service
With SaaS, service providers host applications on their own servers and make them available to customers as needed over the internet. When using these services, IT no longer needs to buy, install and run applications on its own data center systems. Nor does it need to worry about software licensing, installation or support.
But IT remains responsible for a number of management functions. For instance, IT continues to handle application administration and configuration, and also must map business workflows to leverage the SaaS offerings. In addition, internal IT handles reporting and the management of application data.
IT leaders are also responsible for data governance and cybersecurity functions such as identity management, controlling who has access to application data and how changes in data access should be audited. Finally, IT handles the integration of SaaS offerings into existing on-premise systems.
As you can see, regardless of the type of cloud service a company deploys, IT still has its hands full. Unfortunately, a lot of IT executives will need to redefine various roles and responsibilities when adopting a cloud environment. That needs to change, or the move to the cloud might not be a pleasant journey.