As-a-Service and the circular economy

In terms of IT, companies today can purchase everything as a service. Young start-ups are getting a boost thanks to "Anything-as-a-Service" or XaaS, which means they no longer need to invest in their own IT and can focus on growing their business. It is notable that not only start-ups, but also mid-sized and large companies are embracing the benefits of 'as-a-Service' in the field of IT today.  

As-a-Service is not a new concept, but its scope has grown exponentially. What began with software (SaaS: Software as-a-Service) and telecom services has expanded to virtually every aspect of our lives, both professional and personal. We are now accustomed not only to using software through the cloud, but also to purchasing all kinds of products through subscription services. You can even opt for "LaaS" or "Light as-a-Service" from lighting companies, where you do not pay for bulbs, but you pay for the light. This striking shift from product purchase and ownership to 24/7 accessibility and consumption through a pay-per-use service model is closely intertwined with the growing focus on sustainability, ESG criteria and circularity. 

The combination of social awareness and government incentives is driving businesses and consumers toward ways to reduce waste and use resources more efficiently. As-a-Service fits seamlessly into that trend as it transforms products into services. Instead of buying physical goods that eventually become obsolete and must be replaced, we now access products when we need them, without owning them ourselves. As a result, less production is needed and a circular approach is easier and more efficient to organize.  

Synergy between B2C and B2B

The shift to a service-oriented model has led to a synergy between consumer (B2C) and business (B2B) markets. Consumers are becoming accustomed to the quality and flexibility of service and subscription models in their personal lives and expect the same benefits in their professional environments. This is certainly the case for IT services. Instead of investing in expensive IT infrastructure that quickly becomes obsolete, companies can now purchase IT-as-a-Service. They pay for use, while the IT service provider is responsible for proactive management, maintenance and upgrades. This creates a win-win situation, where customers benefit from the latest technologies and IT service providers can count on stable and often recurring revenues.  

Optimal business continuity

Reliable service partners are crucial to a successful as-a-Service model. This is especially true when it comes to indispensable professional IT services. Since critical data and applications are essential for business continuity, the role of the IT partner cannot be underestimated. The focus for as-a-service is therefore on a long-term partnership with a Managed Service Provider or MSP. They can focus on an optimally available IT environment and 24/7 support. A major concern that disappears in times of changing regulations such as NIS2 and the constant threat of hackers. 

Scalability and flexibility

Through an MSP like Cheops, companies can obtain all the cloud services they need at any time. Cheops bears ultimate responsibility and customers receives clear guarantees in terms of continuity, availability and compliance. Depending on specific business needs, each company chooses a particular setup - in many cases a hybrid cloud model. This is a combination of Private Cloud, Service Provider Cloud and Public Cloud. This setup can always expand or change flexibly depending on evolving needs. 

State-of-the-art technology

Through IT-as-a-Service and Managed Services, companies get access to state-of-the-art technology and professional IT services. Thanks to the service model, even mid-sized companies can rely on IT resources whose costs would be so high to finance and maintain internally. Thus, thanks to the scalability advantage of an MSP like Cheops, greater IT standards are within the reach of any organization. The investments in professional cloud infrastructure, specialized service platforms and the expertise of specialists are hereby the responsibility of the Managed Service Provider.

IT expertise within reach

Hiring their own IT personnel is no longer a pressing issue for companies that procure IT as-a-Service. Through the MSP, they have access to a large team of IT experts who also undergo continuous training to keep their knowledge up-to-date and expand. The quality and level of service is thus guaranteed. Companies that still want to bring in external IT experts for an internal project or to strengthen a team for the short or longer term can rely on Cheops' Professional Services. This also includes the same benefits of flexibility, predictable costs and quick access to expertise, with guarantees of continuity. 

24/7 security monitoring

One of the biggest advantages of the as-a-Service approach is still the high level of security. Cybersecurity is more complex than ever, and the new NIS2 regulations create additional challenges. That is why it makes sense to outsource IT security to a specialized partner that closely monitors all risks. Through its Managed Security Operations Center (Managed SOC), Cheops offers advanced IT security tailored to each company's risk profile in a simple and cost-effective service model. A team of security experts leverages advanced technology, tools and processes to monitor, manage and improve security 24/7. They intervene proactively before a threat escalates and causes real problems. This offers great peace of mind: you do not have to invest in a separate security team yourself and you can focus on your business activities. Thus, the as-a-Service model is also a strategic stepping stone to growth for your company.