The Evolution of Application and Data Delivery Methods: Modern Choices and Challenges

The methods of delivering applications and data have continuously evolved since the early 1990s, forcing information technology (IT) departments today to face multiple and complex choices and challenges. Applications are delivered through various models for different reasons, and the majority of organizations rely on multiple strategies simultaneously. Understanding the interdependence between on-premises applications, Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI), Software as a Service (SaaS), and Desktop as a Service (DaaS) is crucial when making investment decisions and determining how to achieve future value in the evolving world of information technology.

On-Premises Applications: Advantages and Challenges in the Tech World

On-premises applications are defined as software installed and run directly on the end-user's device. Although this was the prevalent model for software delivery in the 1990s, they still constitute a significant portion of business applications in the current era. Their most prominent advantages include constant availability and complete user control. These applications can be customized to meet individual requirements and remain accessible to the user regardless of the device's location.

On the other hand, the challenges lie in managing updates and patches that must be deployed across multiple and distributed devices, which can lead to slow and inconsistent processes. Performance may also be affected if applications rely on databases or file storage solutions that require users to connect from diverse environments. Furthermore, security remains a constant concern, as company data must move to the device to access applications, increasing the risks of loss or breach and necessitating the implementation of strong endpoint protection measures.

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI): Centralized Delivery, Secure Remote Access

Data remains in place, significantly enhancing control and security. Managing updates becomes much easier within this centralized model, and applications can be hosted close to the data they rely on, ensuring consistent and reliable performance.

However, VDI requires a stable and consistent connection to the central environment. The operational model of VDI differs significantly from managing on-premises applications and often necessitates specialized skills and dedicated expertise. For these reasons, many organizations prefer to integrate VDI with other approaches rather than relying on it entirely.

Software as a Service (SaaS): Subscription-Based Applications

The Software as a Service (SaaS) model delivers applications over the internet, typically through a web browser, eliminating the need for users to install or maintain software on their devices. Subscriptions ensure applications remain constantly updated, as the provider centrally applies updates.

For IT teams, this model significantly reduces maintenance burdens and compliance requirements. For software vendors, it provides a consistent way to deliver services and rapidly launch new features into the market.

However, the SaaS model means that organizations do not fully own the software. If subscriptions end, access ceases, and migrating from one provider to another can be a complex process, especially concerning extracting data in usable formats.

While SaaS simplifies software consumption, it can raise new challenges at the endpoint level. As data often flows to the user's device, security and performance monitoring remain critical considerations.

The trend towards SaaS adoption is clear and growing. In 2023, the Software as a Service (SaaS) market value reached approximately $197 billion USD, and is expected to reach $232 billion USD by 2024, according to several reports (Statista) , (Synder) , (Powered by Search) . Estimates also indicate that 73% of organizations used SaaS applications in 2023 (Fortune Business Insights) . This growth reflects increasing confidence in this model.

Desktop as a Service (DaaS): Delivering Desktops as a Managed Service

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