What is a SaaS Online Business Manager and Why Coaches and Consultants Need One!

In today's tech-driven world, the role of an Online Business Manager (OBM) has become crucial for many businesses. But with the rise of Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions, a new specialization has emerged: the SaaS OBM. While both roles share some similarities, SaaS OBMs are uniquely suited to businesses heavily reliant on technology. This is especially true for coaches and consultants who need streamlined operations and efficient tech management. But first, where did this term SaaS OBM come from?

Where Did SaaS OBM Come From?

At Work Smarter Digital, we're all about helping businesses work smarter, not harder. For the longest time, I struggled with what to call myself and how to categorize my business. I tried calling myself the CTO or Chief Technology Officer for my clients, but that felt way too heavy, and many of my clients and prospects just gave me these bug-eyed looks, feeling like they didn't need all that. "CRM Expert" kinda worked, but we do way more than just that at Work Smarter Digital. Then it hit me—we're like Online Business Managers, but we focus solely on the product we sell. That product is a SaaS software product...which led me to the term SaaS OBM.

So, I'm claiming and coining the new job function: SaaS OBM, or Software as a Service Online Business Manager. It might sound trendy, but it's a trend that's here to stay.

Let me reintroduce Work Smarter Digital:

We provide SaaS OBM services specializing in HighLevel (which we brand as Work Smarter CRM) to help companies streamline their operations with smart automation, smooth integration of all their SaaS tools, and top-notch business process optimization. Our goal is to craft killer tech strategies, manage all your business systems, and provide ongoing support and training so your business can not only keep up with the digital age but crush it. With Work Smarter Digital, you'll transform your workflows, boost productivity, and see real growth, all thanks to expertly managed SaaS solutions.

Let’s break down what a SaaS OBM is and why this role is a game-changer for your business.

Traditional OBM vs. SaaS OBM: A Snapshot

An Online Business Manager (OBM) keeps the daily operations of a business running smoothly, making sure projects get done on time and processes are efficient. They handle strategic planning, team coordination, and resource management to help the business grow and thrive. The focus of a Traditional OBM and SaaS OBM is different and you will see how well they can work together.

Traditional OBM:

• General Management: Handles a variety of business operations, from project management to team coordination.

• Strategic Planning: Develops strategies to improve business processes and efficiency.

• Operational Support: Supports areas like marketing, finance, and HR.

• Resource Allocation: Manages budgets and resources to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.

SaaS OBM:

• Technology Strategy and Planning: Crafts comprehensive tech plans aligned with business goals and stays updated on emerging tech trends.

• SaaS Software Administration: Acts as the Super Administrator for all SaaS platforms, managing configurations, user access, and integration within the IT ecosystem.

• Automation & Implementation: They identify automation opportunities, integrate new SaaS tools smoothly, and transform processes into streamlined systems.

• System Maintenance and Support: Troubleshoots technical issues, optimizes system performance, and provides ongoing user support.

• Training and Documentation: Develops training programs and user guides to ensure staff can effectively use SaaS tools.

A traditional OBM and a SaaS OBM can team up perfectly, blending their skills to handle daily business tasks and tech solutions, making everything run smoother and boosting growth.

Why Coaches and Consultants Need a SaaS OBM

A SaaS OBM is essential for any coach or consultant relying on SaaS solutions to drive their operations. This role blends strategic planning, technical expertise, and project management to ensure tech solutions are effectively implemented, maintained, and optimized to support business success.

1. Technology Strategy and Planning

• Developing Technology Strategy: A SaaS OBM crafts a comprehensive tech plan that aligns with your business goals. They stay up-to-date on emerging technologies and industry trends to keep you competitive.

• Budgeting and Resource Allocation: They plan and manage the tech budget, allocating resources effectively to maximize returns on technology investments.

2. SaaS Software Administration

• Super Administration: Acting as the Super Administrator for all SaaS platforms, the SaaS OBM manages high-level configurations and settings, ensuring proper setup and integration of SaaS applications within your IT ecosystem.

• User and Access Management: They create and manage user accounts, roles, and permissions, ensuring compliance with security protocols and access policies.

3. Automation & Implementation

• Automation: They identify opportunities to automate processes, increasing efficiency and reducing manual work.

• Integration: Ensuring the smooth integration of new SaaS tools, they coordinate with various departments to seamlessly incorporate new technology into existing workflows.

• Implementation: They transform your processes into streamlined systems through smart automation.

4. System Maintenance and Support

• Troubleshooting and Issue Resolution: SaaS OBMs diagnose and resolve technical issues with SaaS applications, providing support to users experiencing problems with software tools and automations.

• System Optimization: They monitor system performance and make necessary adjustments to improve efficiency, implementing updates, patches, and enhancements to keep systems current and secure.

5. Training and Documentation

• User Training: Developing and delivering training programs, SaaS OBMs ensure staff can effectively use SaaS tools. They create user guides and documentation for reference.

• Support and Communication: They provide ongoing support to users, addressing any questions or concerns, and facilitate communication between technical teams and non-technical stakeholders.

Key Skills and Competencies of a SaaS OBM

• Technical Proficiency: Deep understanding of key business SaaS platforms and automation. Strong problem-solving skills to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues.

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and implement technology strategies that align with business objectives. Analytical skills to assess technology needs and identify optimal solutions.

• Communication and Collaboration: Strong communication skills to work effectively with various stakeholders. Ability to translate technical concepts into non-technical terms for business leaders and users.

Conclusion

While traditional OBMs play crucial roles in business operations, a SaaS OBM brings specialized expertise that’s increasingly necessary in today's tech-driven world. By focusing on technology strategy, SaaS administration, and system optimization, SaaS OBMs ensure businesses can leverage their SaaS solutions to achieve maximum efficiency and growth. For coaches and consultants, investing in a SaaS OBM could be the key to unlocking your full potential and achieving seamless, scalable success.