Companies are confronted with a seemingly simple question regarding the maintenance department: “What kind of platform should I use to manage maintenance operations? Cloud CMMS or on-premise?”

In the past, companies used to install software on a computer or server, but with the cloud that pattern is currently changing. Companies are increasingly replacing on-premise solutions with cloud solutions, as they are more accessible.

The differences between on-premise and cloud CMMS

The main difference between these two solutions lies in the implementation process. While the cloud maintenance software data is stored in the vendor’s data center and the platform is accessible through the internet, the on-premise software is installed on the company’s server, which means it is only accessible from there.

For that reason, cloud software may be the most beneficial in our current digital age, since it allows access to data through a simple Internet connection, anywhere, in any computer or smartphone. It also represents lower costs for the company because it is no longer necessary to install the software on a local server. With a cloud solution, the information is always online, that is, available anywhere and in real time.

On the other hand, on-premise software is installed on the company server, which means the information is only available on the local computer or server. To access the organization’s data, employees need to use the company’s computer or server, without needing an Internet connection.

Despite the differences, both are focused on streamlining the maintenance management process and have an impact on how the company performs and manages its operations.

Look at the differences between cloud and on-premise software:

Cloud CMMS

• Software hosted in the cloud
• Information available anywhere with an Internet connection
• Data storage in a data center with high-security systems
• Automatic infrastructure maintenance and updates
• Easy to implement and use
• Reduced implementation costs

On-premise CMMS

• Software installed on your company computer or server
• Restricted access to information (only on company server)
• No Internet connection required
• Requires the acquisition of hardware, licenses and the creation of internal processes for infrastructure maintenance
• Largest investment

Cloud CMMS: your company’s data anywhere

Even though these two solutions go hand in hand when it comes to improving processes, the future of maintenance lies in the cloud.

With cloud maintenance software, employees can access company data anywhere, from a computer or smartphone. This way, the cloud solution is a decisive tool to develop a maintenance strategy based on efficiency, speed and simplicity.