2. Cloud-based and SaaS products can be
both a blessing and a financial curse for
freelancers. The key is evaluating what
works best for you.
3. SaaS: A Double-edged Sword
SaaS (Software as a Service)
and other cloud-based softwares
present the conundrum of being
both hugely advantageous for
freelancers, but also potentially
highly expensive in the long run.
Usually, SaaS products come in the
form of a program that is available
through the purchase of a monthly
or yearly subscription.
4. The up-front cost is the big advantage here.
It’s not likely that a new freelancer will be able
to drop $3000 on a software product,
but $50 a month might be doable.
It’s extremely important to
note, however, that SaaS
and cloud-based products
do come with drawbacks.
5. “The downside? Users must be comfortable with the idea that
to one degree or another, their use of the system and the data
moving into and through the applications is likely to be
monitored and remotely saved. And some programs are only
available when the computer or device has access to the
internet. No connection...no productivity.”
Odee Ingersoll,
Director of the Nebraska Business Development Center
at the University of Nebraska at Kearney
6. $$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $
In addition to security and data saving,
something to think about is the long-term effect
these programs will have on that freelancer
budget of yours.
7. Perform a “systems scan” a few times a year.
Tips to Save Your Freelancer Budget:
Go through all of your SaaS subscriptions and evaluate how
much and how well you use them. Don’t throw money away on
products that aren’t the right fit for your company.
Take advantage of free trials.
Many SaaS products offer a free trial option, and it’s absolutely
in your best interests to use them. Trying a product for 30 days
or even two weeks is worth it if it helps you utilize your funds
effectively.
8. $
Wait before you go “Premium.”
A common theme in SaaS programs is to offer a free version
with the option to upgrade to a “premium” level. Give the free
version a shot first, just in case it turns out to be all the power
you need.
Don’t forget about what you’re already paying for.
9. SaaS subscriptions can be
lifesavers or they can drag
you down; it all depends on
your business.
