Are Mobile Apps Safe?

Mobile apps have become a necessity for many of us, but how do users know if they are secure?

One of the biggest concerns currently is the in the permissions that mobile apps have, and what they might be doing with users’ personal information. For example: it is great to have an app that organizes all your passwords, but what does it do with that information? Some of these apps will access user’s info such as contacts or the users phone number, and leak that info back to the creator of the free app.

Recently, a permission vulnerability was patched in the Android 2.2 release, but other vulnerabilities exist and it is difficult for the mobile operating system vendors to guarantee that they can safeguard users data with the flood of third-party apps being developed daily.

The best way to protect yourself –and your digital identity, from nefarious apps is to do your research before you install them. Check the web for reviews and any security vulnerability information. If the app is from a trusted source, you are probably good to go—if not, you will want to do your due-diligence before exposing yourself for a “cool game” or a “neat app” meant to keep you busy on the train. Another tip is to not use your iTunes (or other app download venue) username and password anywhere else-such as your bank account! Do not use the same passwords for secure information as you do for the quickie-gotta-have-it squeeze site or shopping site. In fact, always check your bills & account statement and make sure if a fraudulent charge is made, that you are able to address it immediately.

Bottom line – there is a serious threat, security, viruses, and other issues with your mobile smart phone, but just as the technology is being developed to take advantage of you—the technology is being developed to protect you as well. Be vigilant, be cautious and if an app is too good to be true, think carefully before downloading it!

What do you see as the biggest security threat in mobility and the success of mobile apps going forward?

Digital Sabre’s TRAKR

Charlotte-Based Company Launches New SaaS App: Digital Sabre’s TRAKR Keeps Track of Vehicles and Profits

Custom application developer Digital Sabre has developed a new SaaS enabled application called TRAKR. TRAKR is a GPS enabled, fleet and Mobile Workforce management solution delivered on a Software as a Service (SaaS) model. It helps you bring efficiency across your operations from gaining insight to where your vehicles are to assigning tasks to your service people.

Read the full Press Release on PRWeb

Why Use Share Point?

SharePoint 2010 is an innovative new Microsoft product, and Digital Sabre is pleased to be able to bring the extensive SharePoint capabilities to our customers. SharePoint’s main function is to assist your business work more efficiently through easy storage of documentation, indexing, searching, and reporting with integration with Microsoft products including Microsoft Communicator.

​Microsoft SharePoint 2010 has benefits above and beyond what we have seen before. Using SharePoint, businesses can set up Web sites to share information, manage documents, and publish reports to help each member of a team become more effective.

The functionality of SharePoint allows businesses to quickly respond to its changing needs. Using SharePoint 2010, your people can share ideas and expertise, create custom solutions for your specific needs, and find the right business information to make the best choices. SharePoint 2010 will help IT Departments cut training and maintenance costs, save time and effort, and focus on higher business priorities.​

SharePoint allows you to be more productive by connecting with the technologies that you already use, and Digital Sabre can make that happen for you. Give the Digital Dabre SharePoint team a call at 877.630.7371.

Going Saas one Step at a Time

The One-Step-at-a-Time Approach to SaaS

Despite the hype of the Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) deployment model, software companies are somewhat apprehensive and for good reason; the problems encountered by early adopters are an indication that the technology has not quite reached its full potential.

There is another approach to implementing SaaS, however, and that is taking it one step at a time. While this may not be a ‘plug and play’ formula that can be applied to each and every company, it does reflect a logical, managed journey towards SaaS, albeit cautious. Suggested here is a step-by-step approach to implementing SaaS configurations.

Step 1: Do a feasibility study

A feasibility study is the first thing you should do and it’s probably one of the most neglected yet critical areas. Before you go ahead and start developing the next salesforce.com, do an analysis from an objective perspective. Ask questions such as: Why should the company consider moving in to a SaaS model as opposed to sticking with the traditional delivery method. Does SaaS deliver make sense for the business? You should also conduct a benefit analysis and research the degree of flexibility needed, plus potential risks that may arise and any licensing-related issues that may affect both delivery models.

Step 2: Set goals and objectives for the SaaS application

You have determined that developing a SaaS application makes sense. Now set goals and objectives to measure the effectiveness of the application. Pen what you want to achieve through a SaaS delivery model. Also at this time, make a tentative marketing and sales plan. This can be reviewed and altered at a later date, if needed.

Step 3: Consider the costs and the cash flows

The business model for SaaS is different than that of traditional software models. One of the most important dissimilarities is the nature of cash flow. Large, upfront licensing expenses are replaced by pay-as-you-go subscription costs. A SaaS operator should also pay special attention to the potential fixed cost that will be incurred such as continuous support to the application.

Step 4: Develop a Strong SLA

We cannot over emphasize the importance of a strong Service Level Agreement (SLA) in this industry. An SLA acts as a safety net for any software company as well as SaaS provider. And when the software is provided as a service, an SLA becomes even more vital. A rock solid SLA serves a duel purpose for the SaaS provider: (1) it will add to your credibility as a reliable vendor, defining the services and support that will be provided and (2) an SLA will clearly outline the limitation of your obligation towards clients (or should we say tenants?).

Step 5: Build the Team

Software as a Service – see the word “service” in there? Make the service memorable and you have a winner. Delivering a superior SaaS experience depends, to a great extent, on the level of service the company offers. The application needs to be backed by a strong team of support personnel and a customer support center. Make sure you can sustain your software with superior service levels by putting together a team who can handle the challenge. And don’t forget to bring your current team up to speed on what’s required to succeed as a SaaS company and procure their buy-in.

Step 6: Plan the Project

Before you start developing your SaaS application, there is one more step to consider – and it’s an important one. Draw up a project plan and set clear milestones. Remember, these are not the same as what may apply to a traditional software project. Proper planning will ensure your project succeeds with minimal delays and problems along the way.

Like to know more about how to manage a SaaS application development project? Give Digital Sabre a call today at 704-944-5525 for a free consultation. We’re here to help.

Would you like to read this article on our website? Click the links below:

Part 1: http://www.digitalsabre.net/approach-to-saas

Part 2: http://www.digitalsabre.net/become-a-successful-and-reliable-saas-provider

Digital Sabre Client Testimonial

“I was very impressed by the sophistication and level of detail Digital Sabre provided in their Business Analysis document. The document incorporated all the elements of the application in a wire frame format with business flowcharts, effectively showing me that they understood our system in exceptional detail. Digital Sabre took the time to really get to know my business and was able to capture the requirements perfectly, presenting the comprehensive business solution that my business demanded. The amount of time and care that went into preparing this document was evident and resulted in a professional, thorough analysis that I will use to obtain financial backing for a prototype.”

President, nKind Rewards
Napoleon Wallace
Winner - 2010 Five Ventures

Digital Sabre CEO Chet Amalean Featured in Market Research Optimized

Chetan Amalean, CEO of Digital Sabre was recently interviewed by Market Reseach Optimized, an online publication of Consumer Insights Research, Inc., a full-service market research firm.

The topic was E-commerce in the B2B amd B2C arenas. Mr. Amalean discussed the fact that E-commerce is driven by quality and demand and that B2Bs are drawn to the efficiencies and the processes that E-commerce transactions can provide.

Everything from POs, shipping notices, billing and payments can be done effectively and with a significant cost savings online. Business today needs whatever competitive advantages it can get, and working with E-commerce solutions allows any company to enjoy a leaner process.

Read more about the article in Market Research optimized!

Part 2 will be coming soon!

Reasons You Should Consider a Mobile App for Your Business

Do you own an iPhone? (or a Droid?) How about your customers, prospects, and employees? Many people now own the next generation of cell phones that do so much more than just make calls! Smart-phones have become a must-have technology for everyone from school children for CEOs.

While each different smartphone has its advantages and disadvantages, the abundance of available apps that can benefit a business is great. With the growing use of smartphones, the ease of use and the diverse functionality–it may be time for you to consider a mobile application for your business. Here are a few questions you should ask yourself: 

Why is it beneficial to have your own mobile application?

Mobile applications can give employees the ability to access information easily from anywhere there is an internet connection. Increase employee productivity by given them access nearly everywhere and anytime.

What applications do you wish were available to  help build your business?

Mobile applications can be used in your business, or to help your business. Besides increasing access to software and information for your staff, mobile applications can be used to promote your business, make it easier for your customers to reach you, order product, or give their feedback. If there isn’t an ideal application already available, you could have a custom application built just for you!

Could you use mobile applications to increase your revenue?

You could sell access to your app and create a revenue-generator. Do you have a great idea? Would your clients pay a nominal fee to have an additional functional application? Use your application to build a following and make money for your business.

Are you interested in learning more about mobile applications? Give Digital Sabre a call at  877-630-7371.

What is Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing is Internet-based computing, where shared resources such as software and other information is provided to computers and other devices, such as smartphones, in an on-demand environment.

Cloud Computing has become a popular and cost effective way to do business. Due to its ease-of-use and cost-effectiveness, Cloud Computing has been adopted by many organizations– large and small.

Based on the Internet, Cloud computing typically involves using scalable and often virtualized resources as a service over the Internet. Typical Cloud Computing providers delivering common business applications online which are accessed from another web service or software–such as a web browser–while the software and data are stored on servers.

Most Cloud Computing infrastructure consists of reliable services delivered through data centers and built on servers. Clouds often appear as single points of access for all consumers’ computing needs. In effect, cloud computing just means software is being run in one location and it is being accessed from another.

The biggest benefit of cloud computing is that it solves a challenge that almost every company faces: lack of budget dollars, and the desire to be competitive with other businesses in their market.

Here are some reason to get on the cloud-computing bandwagon:

· Low start-up costs 

· Low cost for sporadic use

· Ease of management

· Scalability 

· Device and location independence 

· Rapid innovation 

Cloud computing can be used for e-mail management system, instant messaging, calendar scheduling, and word processing, but it can also handle more robust activities and become a  multi-purpose tool–useful in nearly all business functions.

With lower costs and quick implementation, Cloud Computing is the wave of NOW and has changed the way small and mid-sized businesses operate more than any other technology innovation has in years.

If you are interested in learning how cloud computing can benefit your business, please contact Digital Sabre at 1-877-630-7371.

Current and Potential Uses for RFID (Radio Frequency Identification)

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) has many uses, and is growing in popularity as a way to track products, transfer payments and are even used in keycards to unlock doors in office buildings across the world! Digital Sabre currently works with businesses seeking to harness the power of RFID. Here are a few current and potential uses of RFID:

Asset Tracking
Asset tracking is one of the most common uses of RFID. RFID tags are put into, or onto, a company’s assets or products to help track them if they are lost or stolen. Currently, just about every type of RFID system is used for asset management, and this effective type of use saves time locating items as well as money in not having to replace lost assets.

Manufacturing 
The RFID technology has been used in manufacturing plants for more than 10 years increase productivity. Part tracking is managed by the use of RFID and can help to reduce defects, create efficiencies, increase through-put and manage the consistant quality production of different versions of the same product. Manufacturers can benefit greatly from what RFID has to offer.

Supply Chain Management
RFID technology is used in closed loop supply chains or to automate parts of the supply chain. Companies are now turning to RFID to track shipments among supply chain partners. Have you ever looked at the label on a package you receive and notice the chip? That is RFID and how you are able to track your package online!

Retail
Popular retailers including Best Buy, Metro, Target, Tesco and Wal-Mart are in the forefront of RFID usage. These technology pioneers are currently focused on improving supply chain efficiency and making sure product is on the shelf when customers want to buy it. Look for RFID tags on everything from clothing to your groceries in the coming year as more retailer take this option. 

Payment Systems
RFID is an emerging technology in the supply chain world, but is also used as a convenient payment method. RFID today is used to pay for road tolls without stopping, or in key-fobs to pay for gasoline. In some countries fast-food restaurants are testing the same active RFID tags to pay for meals at drive-through windows. We expect to see this type of mass-market use to continue to grow in popularity.

Security and Access Control
RFID has been used for years as an electronic key to control who has access to office buildings or areas within office buildings. This is quick and convenient and because there is no contact between the card and reader, there is less wear and tear, and therefore less maintenance. It is possible that RFID will replace traditional keys in homes and vehicles.

As RFID technology evolves and becomes less expensive and more robust, more companies will develop new applications to solve common and unique business challenges. If you think that RFID could help your business–or have an area of manufacturing, security, payment, supply chain or asset tracking that could be made better or more efficient, please contact Digital Sabre and we will assist you in determining the best technology solution.

Mobile Applications as an Advertising Opportunity

The delivery of advertising with and within mobile applications is still in its infancy, but the potential is nearly limitless. As a result, some best practices have been defined, while others have yet to be created. Digital Sabre is proud to be on the bleeding edge of this technology, delivering mobile applications to businesses seeking promotion, functionality and efficiencies.

Providing advertising or branding messages as part of mobile applications creates new revenue streams for application publishers, distributors and service providers. These revenues may be used to partially (or completely subsidize) the price of a mobile application or the service(s) that the mobile application provides–allowing a company to “have its cake and eat it too.”

Taking advantage of mobile application advertising opportunities requires a solid understanding of the respective usage patterns (i.e., why, when and how an audience uses a particular mobile application). Depending on the user segment and the application type and genre, frequency of use can vary from monthly to many times daily. Reach can vary from niche to mass market and user preferences can vary from time-killers to finding information as quickly as possible.

Savvy marketers are beginning to see the value it mobile applications as a way to reach an audience, and businesses are taking note. If you are a business seeking a new-media way to promote yourself, OR if you are a businesses seeking to partner with a mobile application to get your name in front of—and in the hands of your potential consumer, we look forward to hearing from you.

Contact Digital Sabre at: 877-630-7371.