According to the German Association for Information Management, Telecommunications and New Media (BITKOM), an ever increasing number of companies use hired software instead of purchased one. This system of software for rent is called Application Service Providing (ASP) and has been pushed for years by major software manufacturers. By introducing an interactive online test called “ASPomat” the association wants to make it easier for small and medium-sized entities to use hired software.
In general BITKOM considers the ASP model to be a good solution given that it ties up less capital than purchased software. Thus, the association launched the interactive “ASPomat” online platform which offers basic information about the issue of ASP. Furthermore, it gives companies the opportunity to find out within 10 minutes whether to them it would be worth using hired software. This project is supported by companies such as Asperado, Bitobito, DATEV, IT Advisory, LogAgency, Microsoft, SAP, Siemens Business Services and VRG.
Here the way ASP software works: ASP solutions are installed ready for use on the computer of the AS provider so that business clients can use them within 24 hours. Access is gained by a browser via a secure encoded internet connection. No programmes are installed on clients local hard drives nor in their local area network as is the case with traditional purchased software. For using the software customers pay a fee, for instance a monthly lump sum. Precondition for this service to function is a permanent and if possible wide band internet access the costs of which have to be taken into account when calculating the rent for the software. 