A hosted solution typically refers to one where the application is hosted on a webserver allowing user to log into their system through their browser. The alternative to a web based or hosted solution is known as a desktop, executable of winform application. These run on their computers locally and can be indentified in windows by the abilty to close them down with an X in the top right of the window.

A hosted solution if configured to be public facing to the internet can be accessed from anywhere. This mean that adequate secuity measures need to be taken into account but this is often outweighte by the ease of access and the fact that user do not need to install or upgrade their systems.

Examples of a hosted solution are SugarCRM and Sharepoint Server. These systems allow provision for document management, task allocation between users and collaboration spaces.

Build versus buy

The build versus buy depate for web solutions gets tighter with many solutions such as SugarCRM forming the base system but allowing customisation and creation of modules. Their is a place for 'from scratch' development but it becomes harder to justify as these platforms become more sophisticated.

Where to from here

Find out about

• Custom Web Development
• Desktop Solution Development
• iPhone development
• SugarCRM
• Sharepoint Server