Software as a Service (SaaS) is a cloud-based software delivery model that allows users to access data and use the software over the Internet. The provider hosts the software centrally and maintains the servers, databases and the code. The client pays for the service through a subscription fee which usually includes maintenance, support and security services.
Since SaaS is cloud-based, the user can access their data on any device which has an internet connection and a web browser. It works on any operating system, including smartphones’ OSs. This also makes setting up the software a lot easier. There is no need to download it to all the computers of the company. And the client doesn’t have to worry about keeping the software up to date. The vendor can deploy an update centrally.
Examples of SaaS software are email, calendar, communication and office tools. Gmail, Dropbox, Slack and ZenDesk are just a few of SaaS examples widely used all over the world.
