How many types of document management system?

Answer 1

An important decision to make when choosing a document management system is where you want the software hosted. If you run it in-house, the solution is usually referred to as a client-server system; vendor-run applications are referred to as application service provider (ASP) solutions. Both options provide distinct advantages: consider which are more important to you.

Client-server solutions

Most software used today is locally hosted - the program runs on your computer and stores the data either on your hard drive or on a network server in your office. This familiar setup gives you the greatest control over every aspect of your document management system.

ASP solutions

In an ASP solution, both the application and data reside on the supplier's servers, and your staff gets access through a web browser or specialized client software.

The main advantage of ASP solutions is that the database is maintained by IT professionals at the vendor's office. Multiple layers of firewalls and security, uninterruptible power supplies, fail-over (instant switching from one computer to another in case of a crash) and reliable backups are all standard operating procedures for these vendors. They combine to virtually guarantee that your critical documents will always be secure and available. You also get access to enterprise-level features without paying an enterprise-level price.