TMS SaaS

To my opinion, TMS (Translation Management System) on a SaaS (Software as a Service) basis is and will be the ultimate solution for small and mid-sized translation agencies trying to remain competitive on the translation marketplace. SaaS provides companies with the option to lease, rather than purchase software with an indefinite number of  licences. It enables remote access (on-line, web-based access) to software which is installed on the provider’s server.

ExacTerm, for instance, offers an on-line TMS for translation agencies at a very low monthly fee. In this TMS, you can store your translation memories, terminology collections and automate your translation process. Sounds nice, but is it safe? How can you make sure that no one else can get to my texts and data? Can you guarantee safety when texts and data are transferred through the web?

Generally speaking, data stored on the provider’s server is more secure than that stored on company servers or PCs. the reason is simply because not many small businesses can afford fully secure, anti-hack and anti-virus systems with backup facilities, emergency power supply and alternative Internet access support. In this respect, SaaS providers are no doubt stronger and better equipped.

Apart from that, there are also other reasons why translation agencies should opt for TMS SaaS.  First of all, the costs of software implementation, set-up and update/ upgrade services are usually included in the overall monthly fees. Secondly, instead of paying per licence, a fee is charged on a monthly basis, making the service much cheaper than using a commercial TMS. Furthermore, the system is flexible enough to be shaped according to the special wishes of the client. And finally, troubleshooting and other related ICT services are done buy the provider, so you save money on those costs as well.

The SaaS model is a perfect solution for translation- and terminology management. SaaS allows small businesses to grow and develop without making huge investments on commercial TMS’s.