Typically you can deploy manufacturing software one of three ways: on-site, cloud, or a hybrid of both.
On-Premise
With this method a software is purchased or developed in-house and stored on a company’s internal servers. Advantages are perceived additional data security by reducing outside access. Disadvantages are that you often need to be on-site to operate, cannot provide access outside the organization, and costs are higher as on-premise technicians are required.
Cloud-Based
Cloud-based software is securely hosted on the vendor side. Advantages are low upfront and support costs, frequent and often free updates, and ability to add new features as they become available. Disadvantages of cloud-based are that you can’t often customize the software to your needs, and you need to control who access is provided to.
Hybrid
Hybrid might sound like the best of both worlds, but it can end up being one of the most costly to implement. This allows for enhanced controls over who can access you data, while storing the most sensitive data on company owned servers.