Over the years, software has gradually become an integral part of the modern IT industry. The reason behind the surge is simple – SaaS apps assist organizations in multiple ways. From CRM to customer interaction, the applications render numerous use-cases.

That is why the SaaS market has accumulated over 145.5 billion dollars across the globe. Even better, the industry is expected to incur over 482 billion dollars in 2022. With such figures on display, the need for SaaS applications is natural.

However, knowing that is merely the first step of the process. While SaaS applicability is evident in most modern organizations, finding the right service provider is something most realize too late.

Selecting the ideal SaaS provider is equally crucial as deciding to integrate SaaS. However, while we made it sound simple, the skyrocketing demand for SaaS has flooded the market with SaaS providers. Thus, opting for an option becomes a challenging task.

But is that it? Is there nothing you can do to simplify the process? Of course, there is, and it will be delivered in the blog. On that note, here are everything businesses must consider before selecting a SaaS provider.

Also Read: How to Choose the Right SaaS Security Provider for Your Business

What is SaaS?

Gaining a fundamental understanding of SaaS is ideal before choosing a service provider. Also known as Software-as-a-Service, SaaS is an app distribution model where a third party maintains, updates, and holds software on their servers. The software is available to different individuals across the organization, which they can access online.

Any examples? Some of the most popular examples of SaaS would be MS Office applications. from Microsoft Office 365 to Google Sheets and Docs, we are dealing with SaaS. Similarly, names like Bitrix24 and Salesforce are prominent SaaS examples in the CRM (Customer Relationship Management) section.

Top Metrics to Consider While Choosing a SaaS Provider

Now that you have a basic understanding of the concept, here are the most common features you should consider while choosing a SaaS provider.

Your SaaS Requirements

What do you desire from SaaS integration? That should be the first thing on your mind. Assessing your organization’s requirements from SaaS gives an outline, which the service provider should fit. Some needs to be defined are user response speculations, number of employees that will use the software, integration points, etc.

Defining such benchmarks drastically narrows down your search for the right alternative.

Vendor Security 

As stated already, a SaaS model means your data will be hosted by a third party. Moreover, it will be available online, which may not bode well with some enterprises. Thus, you must ensure that the SaaS provider has well-documented security protocols and infrastructure.

In addition, the seller should be willing to share surface-level information about it. For example, your investigation may involve metrics like data encryption, security certifications, and disaster recovery.

SaaS Migration

If the vendor stands up to the above-stated benchmarks, assess its migration process. Simply put, check how difficult it is to integrate the SaaS model within your organization. From analysis, planning, code refactoring to data migration, testing, and management – the SaaS provider must be capable of handling it well.

Usability 

If you deem their services simple to implement, see if the employees can cope with it. An overcomplicated SaaS model can overwhelm employees, negating the purpose of SaaS integration. On the other hand, if the model is sophisticated, ask whether the vendor offers training or not. Moreover, consider its accessibility as the users won’t be close to their systems all the time. 

Exit Options

Considering how to drop a service provider while hiring its services sounds odd; however, it is completely sound. Companies can experience instant fluctuations in user demands and market dynamics as ever-changing as the IT industry is. Thus, it is crucial that the SaaS model must be either scalable or easy to leave.

Integrations

SaaS brings the benefit of additional integration to the table. Find out whether the SaaS integrations are plug-and-play or need paid apps, or worse, IT support. In addition, ensure the model facilitates cross-platform compatibility. Finally, it will make the employees comfortable with the model, its applicability, and even aesthetics. 

Pricing

Price along the payment model are also key contributors in deciding a SaaS provider’s compatibility. Ask whether it will be a one-time upfront payment or a gradual payment model. In most cases, choosing the latter option bodes well with companies, allowing them to assess real-time performance benchmarks.

Moreover, look for any hidden charges or unexpected fees. Some vendors place a variable price system, which changes the fees depending on the users and bandwidth. Get clarity on the factors before making the final call.

SLA (Service Level Agreement)

A SaaS suite comes with an SLA (Service Level Agreement.) It entails the details about the services and the areas it will cover. It can also include response time to contact the provider and any penalties that might be incurred in case of unsatisfactory results. An SLA provides you with a preview of what comes next and what to expect from the integration.

Existing and Future Compatibility 

Most SaaS applications run in web browsers, so analyzing its compatibility for the coming years is crucial. Nowadays, Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome have become the default browsers for web apps. 

However, different browsers boast subtle differences and functionalities, which can affect the SaaS’ compatibility. Moreover, ensure the SaaS provider supports Android and iOS devices for better mobility. If the vendor packs such features, the chances of it flourishing in the next couple of years are significantly high.

In Conclusion

SaaS holds utmost importance in the modern market, and its applicability will only surge with time. Under such circumstances, integrating a SaaS model as quickly as possible is ideal for every firm. The article has shed light on SaaS basics and how you can find the right service provider.

If you are wondering whether one vendor can provide such perks, look no further. BigStep Technologies packs 13+ years of experience, including the development of complex SaaS apps. At BigStep Technologies, we house experts from multiple sectors who excel in methodologies, such as SaaS. If you have any requirements regarding the same, connect with us by dropping an email at info@bigsteptech.com. Choose BigStep and find your right set of solutions at affordable prices today.