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pplication service providers, or ASPs, can be attractive alternatives to the increasing costs and frustrations involved in maintaining the information technology infrastructure of your long-term care facility. Most software vendors now offer an ASP delivery option. If you're considering this technology for your business, here's a top 10 list of things to take into account.

10. Longevity
       ASPs are popular these days, but they often come and go. In addition, existing companies are frequently jumping on the ASP bandwagon. Find out how long the company has been in business and how long they have been in the ASP business. Make sure the company you're dealing with is going to be a reliable business partner.

9. Dedication
       Many ASP companies host applications for a wide variety of markets. Find out about the company and who their clients are. How well do they understand the unique environment of a long-term care facility?

8. Hosting
       Many software vendors offer their software applications through a third-party ASP. Make sure you clearly understand who is the actual host of the ASP (and your data) and with whom you are contracting for service. Know who will be responsible for resolving issues that may arise in your day-to-day use of the ASP.

7. Monitoring
       Because ASPs rely on the Internet, performance can vary. Does the ASP vendor monitor performance? What do they monitor and how? Do they have the appropriate equipment set up to respond to changes in performance (i.e., load balancing, redundant servers, etc.)?

6. Maintenance
       Automatic updates and enhancements to software and hardware are important advantages of using an ASP. Routine maintenance will occasionally require software down time. Ask how often this takes place and how it will affect the user. What time of day is it performed? How much warning will the user receive when scheduled down time occurs?

5. Software Platform: Web Enabled Versus Web Based
       Check with your vendor to determine whether the software you will utilize via the ASP is web enabled or web based. There is a difference, and you should understand the advantages and disadvantages of each before you make any commitments.
       Web-enabled software is accessed via the Internet through a "portal" and operates the same way it would on your own local network. This is ideal for software applications that require a high level of user interaction or process complex transactions. However, this type of application may require additional licensing to access the ASP's "private network."
       With web-based applications, the software functions are programmed into a website so the information must travel across the Internet to be processed. This may cause large or complex transactions to be extremely slow and cumbersome. The costs associated with updating and maintaining web-based software may also be higher and will undoubtedly be passed on to clients.

4. Costs
       The costs involved in the use of an ASP may vary widely from vendor to vendor. Be sure you understand all of the charges you may face before you sign an agreement. Compare them with the costs you would incur to maintain the same level of technology yourself.
       Each ASP will have a regular, monthly subscription fee that allows you to access your data and the particular software offered. Find out exactly what these fees cover and what they do not cover. Some ASPs may charge additional fees for technical support calls, updates, enhancements to the software, search engine optimization, web design etc. Ask your vendor if there are any circumstances under which you would incur additional charges.
       In addition to vendor charges, consider the costs of connectivity. There are a variety of connectivity options that may be available to you, depending on your location. The cost for these different options can vary widely, and some may not be appropriate for use with an ASP.

3. Redundancy/Back-Up Procedures
       Disaster recovery is critical to any business that relies on its information systems for day-to-day operations but can be prohibitively expensive. Many businesses choose an ASP delivery option primarily for the vendor's disaster recovery capabilities. Find out what equipment, procedures, and recovery plans they have in place. They should have documented policies and procedures in place and test them regularly.

2. Security
       Most ASP vendors are keenly aware of the need for security in any business. Find out what specific security measures they currently have in place. Are they aware of impending HIPAA regulations? What are they doing to help clients achieve and maintain compliance? Will they be willing and able to make necessary changes or enhancements in a timely and cost-efficient manner?

1. Reputation
       A company's past record of reliability and customer service is a good indicator of the level of service you will receive. How many clients does the ASP vendor currently have? How many ASP clients do they currently have in the long-term care market? Ask for and check their references.
       An ASP can be a viable and cost-effective alternative to maintaining your own IT environment. But not all ASPs are alike. It is important to know whom you're doing business with and what you can expect from your ASP vendor. Asking the right questions will help you choose the ASP that best meets the goals of your business.