Cloud vs. On-Premise Configurators: Which Suits Modern Manufacturing?

Choosing the right product configurator is no longer just a tech decision, it’s a strategic one. And if you’re stuck deciding between a cloud CPQ platform or an on-premise configurator, you’re not alone.

Modern manufacturers are under pressure to quote faster, configure more accurately, and deliver custom products with zero friction. But your configurator’s deployment model plays a huge role in how efficiently you can get there.

So, what’s the best fit for your business? Let’s break it down.

1. Speed to Deploy and Update

Cloud CPQ:
Cloud-based configurators are designed for rapid deployment. No server setup. No long IT timelines. You can launch and update your product rules, visuals, and pricing logic in real time, often without writing a single line of code.

On-Premise:
Expect longer implementation cycles and slower updates. Changes may require developer input, testing environments, and downtime.

Verdict:
If agility matters, cloud wins—hands down.

2. Accessibility and Collaboration

Cloud CPQ:
Your entire team—sales, engineering, even customers—can access your configurator from anywhere. That means real-time collaboration, faster quote generation, and fewer handoffs.

On-Premise:
Access is typically restricted to on-site users or those connected through a VPN. It’s functional, but not built for hybrid or global teams.

Verdict:
Today’s remote-first world demands cloud-native tools.

3. Scalability and Customization

Cloud CPQ:
Need to add a new product line or region? It’s as easy as uploading a model and updating some logic blocks. Cloud platforms scale with you, no hardware upgrades needed.

On-Premise:
Scaling can require additional licenses, infrastructure, or custom development.

Verdict:
Cloud configurators scale faster and with fewer headaches.

4. Security and Control

Cloud CPQ:
Modern cloud providers offer enterprise-grade security, often exceeding what internal IT teams can manage. Encryption, access controls, backups, and compliance are built in.

On-Premise:
Some manufacturers prefer on-prem for full control, especially in regulated industries. But it requires in-house expertise to maintain.

Verdict:
Cloud is secure enough for most, but highly regulated companies may still favor on-premise for data control.

5. Total Cost of Ownership

Cloud CPQ:
You pay for what you use, often with predictable monthly pricing. No infrastructure, no surprise maintenance costs, and software updates are included.

On-Premise:
Large up-front license fees, server hardware, IT staff, and ongoing maintenance add up quickly.

Verdict:
Cloud CPQ offers lower long-term costs and fewer resource burdens.

6. Future-Proofing Your Operation

Cloud CPQ:
The software evolves constantly. You benefit from new features, performance improvements, and AI-driven capabilities the moment they’re released.

On-Premise:
You control when and how updates are made, which often means you’re stuck with outdated tools longer than you’d like.

Verdict:
If you want to stay competitive, the cloud gives you a continuous advantage.

Why Spokbee is Cloud-First by Design

Spokbee 2.0 is the world’s first fully cloud-native product configurator builder designed for PTC’s Onshape platform. It’s purpose-built for manufacturers who want real-time pricing, photorealistic 3D configurators, and zero-code setup, all without sacrificing accuracy or control.

With Spokbee, your CAD data becomes a living, customer-facing experience: configurable, visualized, and priced in seconds.

Still debating cloud CPQ vs. on-premise configurator tools?

Here’s the truth: If you’re trying to move faster, quote smarter, and scale effortlessly, the cloud isn’t just a good idea, it’s the only sustainable path forward.

Spokbee is here to help you get there.

Explore Spokbee 2.0 and see why modern manufacturers are ditching legacy systems for cloud-native configurators that actually deliver.