What is Saas? Definition of Saas and how it works
Saas definition
SaaS is an acronym for Software As A Service. It’s the name given to a cloud-based software model.
Unlike traditional software, SaaS software is hosted by its publisher on remote servers, commonly referred to as the cloud.
SaaS software can be accessed from anywhere, as long as you have a browser and an Internet connection. No installation on your machine is necessary.
These software packages are offered asmonthly or annual subscriptions, covering access, hosting and automatic updates.
Some examples of saas
SaaS software covers a wide range of business needs. Here are some popular categories and examples:
- SaaS CRM for customer relationship management, such as Moovago.
- HR management software for payroll and leave management, such as PayFit or Lucca.
- SaaS marketing and project management tools, such as : Hubspot or Asana.
- Collaborative tools, such as Slack or Microsoft Teams.
What are the advantages of Saas?
Accessibility
One of the main advantages of SaaS is its accessibility. SaaS software can be accessed from any Internet-connected device: computer, tablet or smartphone.
On smartphones, the publisher’s application can be downloaded easily from a store.
This feature enables teams to remain operational wherever they are. This is an essential asset for companies with mobile teams such as traveling sales representatives.
Automatic updates (included in the price!)
One of the great advantages of SaaS mode is the management of automatic updates. Unlike traditional software, users don’t need to intervene. Providers take care of everything, from installing new versions to correcting bugs and adding new features.
Automatic SaaS updates also ensure constant compliance with the latest security standards, and simple intervention in the event of a breach.
Save time and money
By choosing SaaS mode, you can be sure of making significant savings. This is because a software publisher makes available software that has already been developed and is ready to use.
Companies pay only for the use of the software, in the form of a monthly or annual subscription, often tailored to their actual needs.
This means no design or development costs, and no costly investments such as servers or IT infrastructure.
This model makes high-performance software accessible to small businesses, which previously could not afford to adopt these tools. They can benefit from the same functionalities as larger companies, without the high installation and maintenance costs.
And the disadvantages of SaaS?
Internet addiction
One of the main disadvantages of SaaS is its dependence on an Internet connection. Because SaaS software runs on the cloud, a stable connection is essential to use it, which can disrupt team activity in the event of an outage.
For companies located in areas where Internet access is limited or subject to frequent outages, this represents a risk to be taken into account.
Data security and confidentiality
SaaS security is a crucial issue for companies. In SaaS mode, data is stored on the supplier’s servers, often in the cloud. This outsourcing raises concerns about confidentiality and protection against cyber-attacks.
To reduce these risks, it’s essential to choose a reliable service provider. For example, Moovago has implemented multiple techniques to maximize the security of its users’ data. These include hosting on French servers, advanced firewalls, reinforced architecture and compliance with best practices in data protection.
Supplier dependence
SaaS mode entails a certain dependence on the supplier. In the event of publisher bankruptcy, or a unilateral decision to modify rates or functionalities, companies can find themselves locked in. This can lead to business interruptions or unforeseen costs associated with migrating to another solution.
Again, to warn you of this, it’s important to choose your partner publisher carefully. Check the contractual conditions and online user reviews to get an idea before committing yourself.
How do you recognize SaaS software?
There are several simple criteria for determining whether software is SaaS:
- SaaS software works exclusively online, and requires an Internet connection.
- A Saas can be accessed directly from a browser, without the need to install it on a computer or server. However, this does not mean that no installation is required for smartphone applications.
- SaaS software is generally offered on amonthly or annual subscription basis, rather than as a one-off purchase.
However, it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish SaaS from other models such as PaaS (a platform for developing applications) or On-Premisesoftware. To make the right choice, it’s important to understand the specifics and uses of each model.
SaaS vs Paas vs On-Premise software: what are the differences?
SaaS vs On-Premise: two opposing models
SaaS software differs from On-Premise (or On-site) software in the way it operates. SaaS is hosted in the cloud and accessible online via an Internet connection, while On-Premise requires local installation on the company’s servers or computers.
On-Premise allows total control and customization of the software, making it a suitable solution for companies with specific needs or heightened security requirements, but at a higher cost than Saas software.
SaaS vs PaaS: what's the difference?
Unlike SaaS, which offers ready-to-use software for end users (such as a CRM or management tool), PaaS (Platform as a Service) is designed for developers. It provides a complete platform, with tools and environments for designing, testing and deploying customized applications.
SaaS trends 2025 and beyond
SaaS for all company sizes
SaaS is not just for large companies with substantial resources. It is particularly well suited to small and medium-sized businesses, which can benefit from its advantages without incurring the high costs associated with the acquisition and maintenance of traditional software.
Thanks to its subscription model, SaaS gives small businesses access to modern tools that were previously inaccessible to them. For example, a SaaS CRM like Moovago offers powerful features for tracking customers and optimizing sales rounds, without the need for heavy initial investment.
A fast-growing market
The SaaS market is experiencing spectacular growth, driven by the massive adoption of this model by businesses of all sizes. In 2024, it is estimated to be worth $317 billion, and some projections predict that it could reach $1228.87 billion by 2032. This expansion reflects the central role of SaaS in digital transformation, giving companies access to modern, flexible and efficient tools.
SaaS trends also show a strong technological evolution. Publishers are innovating, offering solutions that are more secure and better integrated with other business tools. Major advances are also expected in under-utilized areas such as marketing, data security and artificial intelligence. According to Vertice, these three categories represent the most promising SaaS areas for 2024, but still under-exploited by businesses.
Moovago: saas software for traveling salespeople
The many advantages of SaaS – accessibility, flexibility and cost savings – make it an ideal solution for companies wishing to modernize their tools while optimizing their operations. These benefits are all the more valuable for traveling sales representatives, who need simple, high-performance tools that can be accessed on the move.
Against this backdrop, Moovago has established itself as a SaaS CRM perfectly suited to the needs of sales teams.
Moovago takes advantage of the benefits of the SaaS mode to facilitate the tasks and missions of salespeople:
- A portfolio of customers and prospects accessible wherever you are, and always 100% up to date,
- Help youorganize your sales rounds, and find options for visiting or prospecting nearby in case of unforeseen circumstances,
- Affordable and competitive rates, with a system of options so you only pay for what you need,
- Constantly evolving interface and functionality, with no need for manual reinstallation or updates,
- And much, much more!
With Moovago, sales representatives have a modern, reliable solution for maximizing their efficiency in the field.
Frequently asked questions about Saas
SaaS software can be divided into two broad categories according to scope and specialization:
Horizontal SaaS, which meets general needs shared by all companies, regardless of their sector of activity. For example:
- Slack, an internal messaging software,
- Dropbox for file storage,
- Microsoft Teams, for videoconferencing and collaboration.
Vertical SaaS, software designed to meet the specific needs of a particular sector or activity. Examples include :
- Doctolib, appointment scheduling for healthcare professionals,
- Moovago, the SaaS CRM preferred by traveling salespeople.