The short answer to this question for most business owners is not very long. Business critical software data and client data are central to the day to day operations of eCommerce companies, and to this end, they should be considered some of your most valuable assets. Here’s why you might lose your data and what you can do to protect it.
Why would I lose access to my data?
There are many reasons why you may find yourself in this unenviable position, but the main cause is often that your software provider and/or host provider has gone out of business. For many end users who are reliant on software from external providers, the first they hear of this is when they are faced with a blank screen in the office. By this point, the damage is done and your data is potentially lost, which is why end users should be proactive in protecting business software access.
What can I do to maintain access?
One of the most important things that businesses reliant on software and data can do is examine the contractual relationship between their Software Provider and their Hosting Provider. If your provider offers both services, then you have one contractual relationship with one point of contact. When one goes into administration they both go, and in this event, SaaS escrow would offer you vital protection and maintain your access.
If your software is hosted by a third-party host provider, then you usually have a contractual relationship with your software provider only. Unless you have personally appointed a separate Host Provider, in the event that your software provider goes out of business, you also lose your point of contact with their Host Provider too. This means that you are at the mercy of the Host Provider continuing to host your software, but at what cost? The Host Provider is well within their rights to charge whatever they see fit for the service, they may look to recoup any losses since your Software Provider ceased trading. Host Providers are under no obligation to give data to end users, particularly if there is no contractual relationship, so this is an important factor for eCommerce clients who need business-critical software and data to make a sale.
Protecting your peace of mind
At LE&AS, we understand that maintaining software access is key to protecting your productivity. This is why we have designed the unique SaaS escrow agreement, AccessAssure, to keep continuity within your company. We monitor your providers to spot disruptions to your service early on, and give you the opportunity to take the necessary action. Call our team today on 0800 456 1115 to find out how we can help you protect your business and your peace of mind.
