In the past few years, people moved from using software installed on their desktop, to software they subscribe to online. Here's why:

10: Forget about buying software, subscribe to it

Buying software is expensive, and you probably don't need all the bells and whistles that come with it. When you subscribe, you pay monthly and typically can choose the level of service you want.

9: Less hassles; less worries

Desktop software comes with all the headaches of configuration, setup, and maintenance. With hosted software, just login to your account and get to work.

8: New versions updated automatically

People are tired of constantly updating their software. With hosted software there's no annoying downloads - or worse - having to purchase new versions. Hosters do all the updating for you behind-the-scenes.

7: Scales to your needs

When you first start using a software package, you're not sure how many people will need access, what level of functionality you'll use, or even how much disk space will be required. You don't want to spend too much cash on a top-end system if you don't need it. Hosted software lets you upgrade easily, just contact your company and they'll give you more seats, server space, or functionality as you need it.

6: Work with anyone, anywhere in the world

Working in the cloud (hip way of saying online) allows you to collaborate with people around the world easily. Everyone can use the same software and share the same data from Bangor Maine to Bangalore India.

5: Access all your files and data from anywhere

Having access to everything whether you're home, at the office, lounging at the hotel pool, or on your iPhone in your car is a huge advantage. You can do this with desktop software, but you'll need your PhD in networking from MIT first.

4: Less risky

Its nerve racking to buy a big software package. What if it doesn't work well, or your employees hate it, or it didn't solve your problem like the claims on the box? Most hosted software you pay for month-to-month with no contract. Doesn't work for you, just cancel. PHASE 2 even has a risk-FREE trial where if you don't like our apps, you just don't pay

3: Open APIs

For the more technology minded of you, many hosted software providers are allowing access to their APIs so you can extend and customize their functionality yourself.

2: Widgetize apps; embed in your blog or Facebook

For the less tech savvy crowd, there's a trend towards making hosted apps available as a widget, that can be easily inserted into your blog or Facebook page. Try doing that with your desktop software.

1: Have a question; just call.

Instead of fighting with an incomprehensible user's manual, if you have problems with your hosted software, just call. Many providers are surprisingly good about helping you solve your problems quickly.

Questions? Thoughts? Drop us a line.