The future of SaaS – Latest trends to look out for in 2023

future of SaaS

Software-as-a-Service, or SaaS, is now a crucial component of the global digital landscape. According to the gradual popularity of SaaS businesses in the last few decades, it is quite evident that SaaS is here to stay and will continue to be the power behind giving both large and small organizations access to features and capabilities that aren’t feasible while using an on-site infrastructure. 

Owing to its unparalleled simplicity and speed, SaaS continues to dominate and will do so for many more years. What was once a narrow segment has grown into an all-encompassing solution that can be used by practically any sector. SaaS solutions are more common and practical than ever in industries like education, healthcare, retail, etc. Such types of software are now valuable in the eyes of even large corporations like Microsoft, Oracle, and Google. To ease it for you, we have compiled a list of ways the SaaS industry will continue to develop in 2023. Before jumping to the trends, it’s important to have a solid understanding of what SaaS is and everything it has to offer. 

future of SaaS

SaaS – Meaning and upcoming trends

SaaS, or software as a service, has become many businesses’, academics’, and consumers’ best friend. It is a subscription-based substitute for purchasing, managing, and continuously paying for new software. By paying the software provider a monthly or annual charge to keep their program up to date, take advantage of new features, and maintain its stability, SaaS offers users an affordable way to save money by going for a cloud-based solution instead of an on-site solution. 

On-site software is prone to compatibility issues and requires expensive upgrades frequently. Additionally, machines need to have the latest version of such software to ensure the smooth functioning of the business.  The fact that you typically have to upgrade your equipment before repurchasing and upgrading the software is a concern for many enterprises.

Owing to the frequent updates and fast-evolving business environment, the on-site software can no longer cut it. Consequently,  as the SaaS tools minimize downtime and administrative expenses, they have proven to be essential for firms aiming to have a competitive advantage within their industry.

  1. Prioritize mobile optimization

It’s no secret that service providers are concentrating their efforts on the mobile market, as most consumers own a mobile smart device that relies largely on software to enhance the user experience. Software suppliers prioritize developing a mobile version so customers can access it across multiple platforms. Business owners widely use mobile applications to promptly view and share reports, no matter where they are. A report by CNBC states that by 2025, 76% of people will opt for phones over other devices for using the internet and will no longer depend on using laptops and desktops for using the internet. Most remote workers can access SaaS software outside the workplace using tablets, laptops, and phones. With the increase in remote work, organizations are seeing the value of cloud-based servers that give employees access to software and documents whenever needed. While the on-site platforms cannot be accessed from anywhere but the platform in which they have been installed. 

  1. Big on integrations 

When it comes to SaaS tools, integration of third parties is essential for producing a unified experience. Applications are beginning to appreciate the value of cooperating rather than competing. CRM software often offers a hub where users can access numerous integrations to achieve their objectives. For simpler time management and software usage, integrations offer a solution to put all apps together in one space. For instance, Salesforce is a CRM application that offers incredible integration to improve its overall user experience. Salesforce gives its users a wide range of alternatives for managing their other applications on one platform by combining the greatest features of QuickBooks, Google Cloud, Slack, and Mailchimp. As time passes, you will see more applications giving users this choice.

  1. Micro SaaS to beat the competition

As more players enter the market, we will see more companies try to adjust and provide customers with more innovative, creative products. In reaction to an increasingly competitive environment typically managed by small teams or even a single person, businesses may develop smaller, more adaptable items. Micro SaaS tools are extensions or add-ons to larger products designed to enhance the user experience. The number of micro SaaS solutions is expected to rise significantly, especially those that target specialized markets and customers. Micro SaaS is incredibly lucrative for independent developers trying to enter this market. Micro SaaS is an excellent choice for many business owners entering the SaaS market, and in the years to come, additional Micro SaaS solutions will enter the market. 

  1. Vertical SaaS will continue to rise 

The focus is the main differentiator between horizontal and vertical SaaS businesses. As its name suggests, the first offers solutions for many different industries. The other is a product created concurrently for a small market, typically inside a specific field. Vertical SaaS today strives to attract organizations’ attention by offering the best experience over generic technologies that can achieve a similar task but with less impressive results. As mentioned above, vertical SaaS targets a specific market and offers software solutions. Finding a specialty in the corporate world has been crucial to early success. Therefore, vertical SaaS will continue to grow. Therefore, vertical SaaS can be your solution if you offer software as a service or wish to enter the industry.

Need more proficient guidance for growing a SaaS business? Reach out to us here! 

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Gaurav Sabharwal

CEO of JOP

Gaurav is the CEO of JOP (Joy of Performing), an OKR and high-performance enabling platform. With almost two decades of experience in building businesses, he knows what it takes to enable high performance within a team and engage them in the business. He supports organizations globally by becoming their growth partner and helping them build high-performing teams by tackling issues like lack of focus, unclear goals, unaligned teams, lack of funding, no continuous improvement framework, etc. He is a Certified OKR Coach and loves to share helpful resources and address common organizational challenges to help drive team performance. Read More

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