Software as a Service(SaaS) is an internet- based service that allows users to connect to and use cloud-based apps. Basically, it is a type of cloud computing that delivers a cloud application and it’s underlying IT infrastructure. All these processes are done through an internet browser. It can be an ideal solution for all kinds of businesses. 

Especially it helps in reducing the costs related to operations and capital expenses. It also favors subscription-based services- for example, a firm that uses a particular function of the service only pays for that service. 

Common SaaS scenarios

Web-based email services such as Outlook, Hotmail, and Gmail are already using SaaS cloud computing to provide mail services through which users can share information, files, and other forms of data as well. This is a SaaS application that most of us have been already using. The email software is located on the service provider’s network and user messages are stored there as well. User can access their email and stored messages from a web browser on any internet-connected device or a computer. 

Characteristics of SaaS

1. Easy Customisation 

The ability for each user to easily customize applications to fit their business processes without affecting the common infrastructure. Because of the way SaaS is architected, these customizations are unique to each company or user and are always preserved through upgrades. That means SaaS providers can make upgrades more often, with less customer risk and much lower adoption costs.

2. Better Access 

Improved access to data from any networked device while making it easier to manage privileges, monitor data use-, and ensure everyone sees the same information at the same time.

3. SaaS Harnesses the Consumer Web

Anyone familiar with Amazon.com or My Yahoo! will be familiar with the Web interface of typical SaaS applications. With the SaaS model, you

can customize with point-and-click ease, making the weeks or months it takes to update traditional business software seem hopelessly old-fashioned.

SaaS Trends 

Organizations are now developing SaaS integration platforms (or SIPs) for building additional SaaS applications. The consulting firm Saugatuck Technology calls this the “third wave” in software adoption: when SaaS moves beyond standalone software functionality to become a platform for mission-critical applications.

Advantages of SaaS:

1. Pay only for what you use.

You also save money because the SaaS service automatically scales up and down according to the level of usage.

2. Use free client software. Users can run most SaaS apps directly from their web browser without needing to download and install any software, although some apps require plugins. This means that you don’t need to purchase and install special software for your users.

3. Mobilise your workforce easily.

SaaS makes it easy to “mobilize” your workforce because users can access SaaS apps and data from any Internet-connected computer or mobile device. You don’t need to worry about developing apps to run on different types of computers and devices because the service provider has already done so. In addition, you don’t need to bring special expertise onboard to manage the security issues inherent in mobile computing. A carefully chosen service provider will ensure the security of your data, regardless of the type of device consuming it.

4. Access app data from anywhere

With data stored in the cloud, users can access their information from any Internet-connected computer or mobile device. And when app data is stored in the cloud, no data is lost if a user’s computer or device fails.

5. Gain access to sophisticated applications. To provide SaaS apps to users, you don’t need to purchase, install, update or maintain any hardware, middleware, or software. SaaS makes even sophisticated enterprise applications, such as ERP and CRM, affordable for organizations that lack the resources to buy, deploy and manage the required infrastructure and software themselves.