SaaS solutions, G Suite, Salesforce, and Slack, are all set to bring some revolutionary digital changes to businesses. Building a SaaS product is now a basic requirement for most mobile app development companies. It is estimated that the global mobile SaaS market will reach $37.9 billion by 2021. Let’s learn more about SaaS app development.
SaaS – What is it?
SaaS (Software as a Service) is a cloud-based solution that provides ready-made software to customers through a mobile app or web browser. According to Gartner, the cloud adoption strategies will influence more than 50% of ITO deals through 2020. Using this type of service, customers need not install or configure the app as the software provider takes care of it.
There are some differences between building a SaaS product and other traditional products. When a SaaS product is launched, web developers work on it continuously. It is necessary to update services regularly to get more users and lead the competition. Companies like Amazon and Salesforce have dedicated development teams to keep the solution updated.
Read More : The 8 Benefits of Saas- (Software as a Service)
Benefits of SaaS App Development
SaaS solutions have greater potential for improving businesses. It is the right choice for both mobile application development and web application development. Noted below are a few advantages of SaaS:
- Cost-efficient: SaaS services are less expensive in the long run because users don’t have to purchase or maintain expensive hardware. SaaS solutions come with paid subscriptions. Hence, the company pays only for the required functions; they can stop payment if the services are no longer required.
- Reliable: As SaaS is a cloud-based solution, it is more reliable. Cloud is a network of services placed worldwide. So, even if a server is down, the SaaS products continue to work.
- Scalable: If a business has subscribed to SaaS, it can pay for the services needed. However, in case of a change in requirement, the subscription plan can be upgraded within a few minutes.
- Secure: Security is a major challenge in cloud-based services. However, the system is secure, protected, and encrypted.
As SaaS is a cloud-based solution, it can be accessed from several devices such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets, from anywhere in this world.
SaaS App Development Procedure – Step-wise
Building a SaaS product is not the same as regular mobile app development. The key difference in developing a cloud-based solution is the demand for a reliable cloud-based service provider.
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is one of the most popular providers offering several tools for SaaS developers.
Let’s learn more about SaaS application development. Remember, it needs time and energy to learn what customers demand.
Step#1: Add Value to the Solution
SaaS products can only gain users when you offer a valuable solution. Customers weigh the value of products before they subscribe and pay for it.
For instance, some mobile apps offer a 14-day free trial. It is an effective way to help customers understand the value of the app and its benefits. Moreover, you could also offer single user payment for the platform. This offer can be convenient for them.
Step#2: Competitor Analysis
To start SaaS application development, you should know the market thoroughly. You must understand the target audience and analyze your competitors, their solutions, and business models, etc.
Market research is important to realize how to develop the SaaS application that could stand out from all the existing products in the market.
Step#3: Gather the Necessary Requirements
Before you start SaaS app development, consider the following project requirements:
Have a list of features ready. Divide the features of the app categories – basic features and advanced features.
Basic features or MVP is the features needed to satisfy user requirements. Advanced features add exciting and engaging functions.
Some of the important SaaS application development tools are functional tools, analytical tools, and management tools. Each of these tools has unique roles to play.
Step#4: UI/UX Design is the Key
Creating a brilliant UI/UX design for the SaaS product is important to make it appealing for users. As you know, users are spoilt for choice. They do not want to stay on apps or websites with unclear and unattractive designs. To make the app more profitable, come up with a user-friendly design.
Remember, the design process requires both time and money. It begins with the wireframe or the schematic placement of different elements on an app screen. Usually, wireframes are monochrome, showing the screen connection.
Thereafter, designers add a visual style to the app. they play with colors, fonts, and various graphic elements.
Designers create app screens and conditions. Then, the prototype. Finally, they hand over their designs to the developers.
Step#5: Pricing
Pricing is also a strategy. It plays a crucial role in any SaaS product. As a subscription plan is not a surprise anymore, you should come up with multiple plans to meet and exceed user expectations.
Besides, it would be wise to add different free functions. You can also offer a free trial.
SaaS providers offer subscriptions for several numbers of users, from 3 to 1000 accounts.
Step#6: Tech Stack
It is very challenging to choose the right technology for a SaaS app. You have to justify the project requirements, design, and features to the mobile app development team. They can pick the necessary technologies for SaaS app development. Make sure the solution is updated. Choose tools that ensure scalability.
Challenges of SaaS Application Development
There may be many difficulties on the technical side of SaaS app development.
#1: Scalability
The number one challenge is scalability.
To create a successful SaaS product, you should have a scalable tech stack. Complex solutions should be customized at each layer. Hence, developers must consider these aspects:
- Interface
- Integrations
- Page templates
- Features
- URL structure
Scalable products are attractive to users. It brings value to the app in the long run.
#2: Reliability
For cloud software maintenance, the AWS SaaS architecture provides reliable service. AWS is responsible for the hardware and keeps a backup of all data. It’s a major data of using the SaaS solution.
Your users should rely on you and trust your services completely. Hence, you should pay attention to minute details such as UI/UX design, logo, color, etc.
#3: Security
SaaS solutions work with different processes and business segments that keep sensitive information. The responsibility of user data rests with the services.
Sensitive information like personal data, bank details, customer’s information, and any other data may leak if security is not guaranteed. It may lead to loss of customers and trust.
#4: Third-party Integrations
SaaS applications have third-party integrations such as PayPal, Google Maps, etc. It is a big responsibility to maintain this. Only a proficient mobile application development team can come up with such a SaaS application. Moreover, third-party integrations dictate the final price of the product.
Conclusion
Hire mobile app developers from Radixweb who have the knowledge, expertise, and proficiency in handling SaaS application development. Owing to rigorous training and client project exposure we have made sure that our team is abreast of the latest trends and knows the ins and outs of SaaS app development. Our robust SaaS services can bring about a radical disruption in your business. Contact us to know how.
