Now That Dynamics AX Is Available As a Service, When Does It Really Make Sense?

The spread of Software as a Service (SaaS) is now making it possible for users to gain access to Dynamics AX via the Internet instead of going through a sometimes painful installation process.

The big advantage of SaaS for AX users is that, instead of having to carry out a full implementation, with a complete license and the purchase of appropriate hardware, customers can get set up quickly and avoid significant startup costs.

In many respects, it's the old rent-versus-buy decision. When you rent, you avoid making long-term financial and other commitments, but you never have full control of the system.

For the smaller company trying to preserve cash, SaaS can be a wonderful idea. There are no upfront costs-in effect, they are spread out over many months. Because payment is on a per-user basis, a smaller company can keep monthly operating costs down....