SaaS development, or software as a service application development has gotten quite the attention in recent years. It seems to only be steadily increasing in popularity. Some examples of SaaS include Google Apps, Dropbox, Slack, Hubspot, and MailChimp. Third-party companies host the application, often for a subscription fee.
SaaS, in general, has many interesting features. Building a SaaS can certainly have its challenges. Though the challenges are there, the developer creates the application in order to create another route of income. Software as a service development can be of great value if the application is popular enough with the general public.
Why Develop
Many SaaS vendors provide a free trial. This allows the user to come in and test drive the application. If they like it enough and/or use it enough, they may purchase the license or subscription. As a developer, you can offer a number of packages to give the user the optimal experience.
Income is always helpful. If you are looking to supplement your income, this may be a way to do so. The SaaS application can bring in a steady income if the customers are happy with the product.
Is it Difficult to Build?
When it comes to the architecture of the SaaS system, there is a single and a multi-tenancy. There are some key differences between each one. Depending on the needs of the developer and of the application, the choice could easily be either.
The single-tenancy creates separate databases for different tenants.
The multi-tenant approach means the instances are shared among each other. This is often a huge cost saver since it helps tenants save on server fees and updates.
Important Things to Remember
Security
Security is a major implication when creating a SaaS. Could solutions such as AWS be a good choice? Each person’s information is kept separately and accessed by a special identifier. You can never be too careful with security.
Features
Only certain features should be accessed by users who have purchased a package. Be sure to deactivate any features for the regular free user. Many services offer a tiered service package, with each higher-priced package offering more features. It’s good to have a selection for your users.
Updates
As a developer, the process of updating should be taken into account. Optimally, it should not disrupt the user. Also, the ease of the updating process will be better for the end-user to handle. Updating online might be an advantage for most users and developers.
API Value
It would be a wise move to develop the software which allows integration. Not only is it smart for a competitive reason, but it’s also wise because it adds value to your SaaS.
Payment
Most SaaS applications are sold via subscription. A free trial period is commonly used, however. This allows the user to become comfortable with the software before purchase. Having different package options might be something to think about as well. Mid-grade and high-grade plans would each offer different features and unlock specific tasks.
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