OPS as a Service


"Operational Surveillance as a Service" – also known as hosted-OPS or web-based OPS – is an example of the Software as a Service (SaaS) model of software delivery. In the case of “OPS as a Service”, the Internet replaces the local desktop as the platform of choice to deliver surveillance and security management. This “hosted” mode of delivery is increasingly favored for its greater cost-effectiveness, scalability, flexibility and reliability over traditional software models.

The Future of Software

Industry research reveals that growing numbers of businesses worldwide are running SaaS-based applications. A recent survey(1) indicated that over half its respondents had adopted SaaS, with adoption rates predicted to reach 60-75% by 2010.

It’s easy to understand the SaaS revolution in view of its benefits(2):

  • No client/server software installation or maintenance.
  • Shorter deployment time - potentially minutes as opposed to phased implementations that could take months.
  • Global availability - functionality that is available from anywhere on the Internet natively.
  • Service Level Agreement (SLA) adherence - reported bugs can be fixed minus any rollout overhead.
  • Constant, smaller, upgrades - consistent miniscule changes that add up over time instead of monster patch and upgrades that cost you time and money to implement.
  • Ease your internal IT pains - SaaS offloads a great deal of IT pains incurred by software consumers in the traditional client/server model. This leaves IT personnel to focus on improving the day-to-day technical operations of your company instead of being called upon to troubleshoot third party software or maintain aging infrastructure.
  • Redistribute IT budget - by outsourcing software functionality to a provider, the enterprise realizes a cost savings in infrastructure requirements and IT personnel knowledge requirements. This allows the enterprise to focus on core competencies. It also means that the cost savings from using SaaS applications can be flat out saved, or reallocated to boost productivity through other services.

Enter SaaS 2.0

IT analysts are unanimous: Software as a Service is now entering a period of accelerated adoption. This is driven by SaaS going beyond its recognized business drivers, which have so far mainly focused on cost-effective software delivery.

SaaS is now emerging as a business transformative force. This new SaaS evolutionary phase – coined as SaaS 2.0 – is all about helping end-users transform their business workflow and processes…and the way they do business.

Transforming Surveillance

iWatchEnterprise transforms surveillance and security management by merging two powerful models: the business process improvement benefits of Operational Surveillance with SaaS virtualization.

By leveraging the power of hosted software, we help businesses and organizations of all sizes deploy low-cost, flexible and robust OPS solutions…which in turn helps them make better business and safety decisions in every location, every single day.

Key characteristics of Operational Surveillance as a Service:

  • Dramatically lower cost of ownership: All surveillance and security management functionalities are delivered online on a pay-as-you-go basis. No need to purchase expensive software to install on multiple desktops and mobile devices.
  • Minimal training costs: Web-browser delivery simplifies training of surveillance personnel. New modules and functionalities are presented in a graphic interface that users learn only once.
  • Transparent maintenance: Software updates are seamlessly performed through the network. No need for the user to manually download patches and upgrades.
  • Easy IT deployment: Effortlessly works through firewalls and NAT devices. No need for complex configuration on the part of the user.
  • Flexible command-and-control location: Operators have access to all application functionalities anywhere networks are available, thereby enhancing responder mobility and escalation procedures.
  • Enhanced security: The application runs on the highest of security protocols. Strict user identification through SSL encryption. Management control over user privileges. Robust audit trails of all activity for reporting and analysis.
  • Instant disaster recovery: In the unfortunate event of business facility shutdowns due to accidental or natural disasters, SaaS delivery means that all surveillance and security management functions are still available. No loss of security data or capabilities.

(2) This list is taken directly from an article titled SaaS 101: The Benefits.