While purchasing devices for your business has its merits, it pays to consider more cost-efficient options. Hardware-as-a-Service (HaaS), a subscription-based model for acquiring IT hardware, is becoming more popular as a viable option for businesses seeking to reduce expenses without compromising efficiency. With HaaS, instead of buying hardware outright, you rent it from a HaaS provider like Healthy IT on a monthly or annual basis. There are many benefits of Hardware as a Service.
If you’re considering HaaS, you’re not alone — more and more companies are recognizing the benefits of Hardware as a Service and its cost-saving value. In fact, according to UnivDatos Market Insights' 2021 research, the HaaS market is anticipated to witness robust growth, surpassing $304 billion by 2027.
In this article, we’ll help you determine whether HaaS is the IT cost saving strategy for your business’s IT hardware needs.
Purchasing hardware vs. deploying HaaS
It’s difficult to pinpoint when the concept of HaaS was first introduced, although it’s easier to determine how it came about. The traditional model of acquiring hardware involved purchasing servers, workstations, and other essential equipment, leaving companies with the responsibility of maintaining, upgrading, and disposing of outdated equipment.
Here's where the benefits of Hardware as a Service come in as a transformative alternative. Instead of purchasing equipment, with usually hefty prices, HaaS is offered on a subscription basis — just like the widely recognized Software-as-a-Service, or SaaS, model. In both services, users pay for the services’ provided value rather than the specific hardware or object itself.
The HaaS model emphasizes flexibility
In the traditional model, once hardware is purchased, businesses are often stuck with the technology they have, even if it becomes outdated or if their needs change. Upgrading typically involves substantial investments, which then cause budget strain.
With HaaS, businesses can adapt their hardware infrastructure to changing requirements without the burden of ownership. Need more computing power or additional storage? HaaS allows for easy upgrades and adjustments, ensuring that your technology grows alongside your business.
Scalability at your fingertips
In addition, HaaS allows businesses to scale their hardware infrastructure based on current requirements, whether it's accommodating a growing team or streamlining operations during quieter periods. This scalability extends beyond just hardware. HaaS providers often bundle software solutions and support services with their hardware offerings, ensuring that the entire IT ecosystem can be adjusted to align with the changing demands of the business.
In other words, with HaaS hardware management becomes more agile, which the traditional model struggles to match. The ability to adapt and scale in real time is a crucial advantage, especially in an era where business technology needs to shift rapidly.
Related reading: What are the benefits of HaaS for SMBs?
The cost-saving benefits of Hardware as a Service
Here are some of the most significant ways that HaaS can save you money.
Predictable payments for easy budgeting
Besides eliminating the upfront costs associated with purchasing hardware, HaaS provides businesses with predictable IT expenses, making it easier to budget and plan for the future. With traditional hardware purchases, businesses may face unexpected costs associated with upgrades, repairs, or replacements. HaaS, on the other hand, offers fixed monthly or annual fees that cover all hardware maintenance and upgrades. This predictability allows businesses to avoid surprises in their IT budget and allocate resources more effectively.
Reduced downtime and maintenance costs
HaaS providers are responsible for maintaining and supporting the hardware, which can significantly reduce downtime and maintenance costs for businesses. In a traditional hardware setup, businesses may need to hire IT staff or outsource maintenance to external providers, adding to their IT expenses. With HaaS, the provider handles all hardware maintenance, including repairs, upgrades, and replacements, allowing IT staff to focus on more strategic initiatives.
Access to the latest technology
An additional benefit for businesses is that HaaS providers regularly upgrade their hardware, ensuring businesses always have access to the latest and most efficient technology. Similarly, with HaaS, businesses don't have to worry about their hardware becoming obsolete, as the provider handles all upgrades.
HaaS has emerged as an IT cost saving strategy for businesses of all sizes, offering significant savings compared to traditional hardware purchases. Consult Healthy IT to learn how we can assist you in procuring top-notch hardware without breaking the bank. Call us or leave us a message.