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SaaS (Software as a service)

What is SaaS? - Software as a service

SaaS, an acronym for Software As A Service (in Spanish: software como servicio), is a business model where an application or software is used over the Internet (a cloud service). In other words, it is a type of cloud computing where end users only need Internet access to use the application.

With a SaaS product, the company that buys the use of the SaaS software doesn’t have to carry out complex software installations or have its own hardware infrastructure. By simply giving its employees access to the software, they are already in a position to use it.

When buying SaaS solutions, you usually sign up for some kind of subscription to use the tool, either monthly or annual.

1. Advantages of SaaS solutions

Companies that make use of cloud-based SaaS solutions obtain multiple advantages compared to the purchase of installable application packages. Among those benefits, we can list:

  • Infrastructure and configuration cost savings. The SaaS model allows users to always work with the latest version of the software, which is hosted on the SaaS solution company’s infrastructure.
  • Access from any location. Access to SaaS services can be done from any other Internet-connected device, without the need to install the SaaS service locally.
  • Very fast deployment. Its configuration is fast because SaaS solutions can be used by users with little or no technical experience.
  • Ease of expansion. It is usually accessed by licensing or pay-per-use, so it easily adapts to the usage needs of each client. Allowing more users to join without any problems.
  • It is always updated and secure. SaaS services generally have automatic, frequent and free updates of their tools. This allows the most current and secure version of the tool to be used.

2. Characteristics of SaaS services

There are several types of SaaS solutions, each with its own peculiarities, but in general, the most common characteristics of SaaS services are as follows:

  • Cloud architecture. They are designed for multiple users at the same time, so the infrastructure behind SaaS solutions is based on a shared remote infrastructure (maintained by the company providing the SaaS solution).
  • Convenient access for any connected device. Thanks to this, users can access up-to-date data and information at all times, as it is synchronized in the cloud infrastructure on a recurring basis.
  • They have an improved UX and UI. Their creators take special care to ensure that the interfaces of their solutions have a simple look and feel based on the browsing experience you would have on the web.
  • Social and collaborative features. Within SaaS solutions it is very common to have features for several people or departments to establish areas where they can collaborate effectively.
  • Pay-per-use or fee. Although there are pay-per-use services, the most common model is for the service to be paid for as a monthly or annual subscription. They also usually offer reduced trial or freemium versions where the software’s features are limited.

3. Examples of SaaS

You are surely using SaaS solutions in your day-to-day life. Here are some examples of SaaS applications:

  • Adobe Creative Cloud, a suite for accessing graphic design, video editing tools, etc.
  • Amazon Web Services (AWS), cloud platform with more than 200 services.
  • Dropbox, a cloud document storage service.
  • GitHub, a service for sharing code and your own projects with version control.
  • Microsoft Office 365, suite of applications for document creation and management.
  • Mailrelay, an email marketing tool for sending bulk emails.
  • Slack, the messaging solution.
  • WordPress, a CMS for website design.

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