Software as a Service vs. Open Source Software
Software as a Service
RocketFuel CMS is a hosted, Software as a Service (SaaS) solution for website content management.
Software as a Service systems work in the same way that a cloud-based software, like Google Docs, Microsoft 365, or SalesForce work. SaaS does not give you actual ownership of the system, but a license to use the software.
Unlike open source systems like Joomla, Drupal, and Wordpress, SaaS systems hold the responsibility of keeping the website up to date and running smoothly. This means RocketFuel is in charge of everything regarding the hosting and technical aspects of your website.
Software as a Service Advantages
After years in the business we believe SaaS is the best solution for managing most websites. We’ve worked with hundreds of clients who happily agree and continue to use RocketFuel CMS to manage their website.
Advantages of Software as a Service solutions (RocketFuel CMS) include:
- No installation
- No server to maintain
- No upgrades to deal with
- Your data is automatically backed up and secure
- Direct support e-mail to knowledgeable full-time staff
Open Source Software Disadvantages
Open source CMS software is not inherently bad and is a great fit for some websites. We’ve even installed Wordpress implementations for a few clients.
Advantages of open source solutions like Drupal, Joomla and Wordpress include having more flexibility, having complete control over everything, no ongoing monthly costs for the software itself, and an active developer and support community to take part in.
However, open source software solutions generally do not fit the needs of most small organizations that do not have an on-staff web department or a full-time web developer.
There are some severe disadvantages to using open source software versus the SaaS model. The biggest disadvantage is software updates, including security, that become the responsibility of the host. This opens up your website to many problems if the software is not updated properly and in a timely manner. Frequently missing updates leaves your sensitive information vulnerable because open source software can be hacked.
Disadvantages of Open Source Software solutions include:
- Responsibility for installation, maintenance, and upgrades
- Need someone to continually test and control software implementation
- Usually is installed then forgotten until something breaks
- Must backup and secure your own software
- Higher risk for your website to be hacked
- DIY support in forums and scouring the web for answers
More Information
We love to talk about technology. If you have questions or want to discuss this topic further, please contact us! We like to give everyone as much information as possible to help make a more informed decision about your organization's website needs.
If you would like a demo of the RocketFuel CMS or would like to talk to others who use it, please contact us! We'd love for you to talk to other similar organizations that use RocketFuel to manage their website, play around with the CMS, and discover if a hosted SaaS solution is the best opportunity for your organization.