Over the past decade, there has been a major shift in standard software development. The old preference for custom-built software, designed with a specific goal in mind, has evolved. Today more and more software is offered as a service – commonly known as SaaS.
It means that software developers will continue to develop products according to customer needs, but at the same time, developers commit to a long-term relationship with their customers, keeping software up-to-date and continuously improving systems.
IFUcare uses SaaS logic for their eIFU platform: Though originally focused on the regulatory requirements of eIFU provision, business and customer requirements have expanded over the years. Initially, these additional requirements were implemented upon request for each individual customer. But the shift to SaaS for eIFU means these individual requirements can, where appropriate, be rolled out for the benefit of all; all customers can continuously gain from IFUcare’s developments. Read on to find out more about the six key advantages of delivering eIFU SaaS.
1: Reduce development costs and time
Custom-built systems take up time for manufacturers. Defining user requirements, spending time on validation and following up with suppliers are just some of the tasks they must grapple with at a project’s outset. Moreover, the development of a custom-made eIFU website comes with massive investment in both time and resources, eating into manufacturer budgets.
When using IFUcare’s SaaS, manufacturers can rely on the state-of-the-art, ready-to-go platform of IFUcare. Developed and pre-validated by professionals, the platform significantly reduces lead times by allowing manufacturers to focus on the implementation process.
2: Continuous improvement
In addition to initial development, IFUcare also keeps the eIFU software up to date with no further cost or effort for the manufacturer. This means that both regulatory compliance and additional customer requirements are meticulously monitored and updated by the platform’s developers and regulatory team. If new requirements do come in, they are incorporated into the base functionality of the IFUcare system and made available to all SaaS users.
This does not mean that SaaS is a one-size-fits-all. IFUcare carefully evaluates every new feature to determine whether it is useful for all manufacturers or a particular sub-group. If needed, features can be implemented as configurable functionality so manufacturers can adjust to their own business needs.
3: Cost-Effective
SaaS is cost-effective for manufacturers because the multi-tenant environment of SaaS products means all customers share the cost of maintenance and updates, working together to contribute to a high-quality product.
Moreover, a SaaS model allows consumers to pay subscription fees over time and based on usage. It is therefore more affordable, involves less financial risk and avoids hidden costs compared with the flat costs of a custom-built system.
4: Ongoing support
Contrasting with one-time software purchases, where support is usually limited to the initial delivery and setup – or additional, costly maintenance packages must be purchased – the eIFU SaaS also includes a full team of support specialists. The team is readily available to answer all your questions at any time throughout the lifespan of the eIFU system.
5: Cloud-based
One of the big advantages of IFUcare’s SaaS platform is that it is hosted on the cloud. The application can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. Moreover, since SaaS applications are cloud-based, the risk of data loss is significantly reduced. IFUcare has robust backup and disaster recovery systems in place to ensure that data is always available and secure.
6: Integrations with other SaaS
SaaS applications can be easily integrated with other software, such as customer relationship management (CRM), content management (CMS) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. This allows businesses to streamline their operations and increase productivity by having all their systems working together seamlessly.
SaaS and eIFUs: don’t get left behind
SaaS offers numerous advantages for businesses. Medical Device and In Vitro Diagnostics manufacturers across Europe are already seeing the benefits of adopting a SaaS eIFU solution. Working with an expert partner like IFUcare helps firms get a solution of their own off the ground – with all the savings in time, money and effort that come with it. Download the whitepaper on this page to find out more about how working with IFUcare could help you.
