SaaS Software as a Service - what is it and why is it so popular?
Dla biznesu
4 July 2025
SaaS is currently one of the most popular software distribution models. Software-as-a-Service reduces expenses in IT departments and optimises the technical aspects of running a business. In this text, you will read about what SaaS is and how it works.
SaaS - what is it?
SaaS (software as a service) - or software as a service. It is a model for making software available in cloud computing using the internet. Users access SaaS applications using a web browser or an API from the provider.
Today, tools offered in the SaaS model are very popular and used by a large number of people all over the world. Software as a service has found its application not only in business or education - we also use many services of this type on a daily basis. How did SaaS come about?
As the price of computers came down, and thanks to widespread network access, many companies implemented their own local area networks (LANs) to control CPU usage and program sharing.
Subsequently, IT service providers expanded their offerings to include hosting. These were the first services in the ASP (application service provider) model, where programmes were made available over the Internet on a subscription basis. ASP is the direct predecessor of SaaS.
Currently, SaaS is one of the most popular models for using applications available in the cloud. Users of such solutions get access to a fully functioning tool. Importantly, they can customise its functions to suit their needs. Such software usually allows for considerable personalisation. 
Software as a Service (SaaS) - what is it for?
SaaS is a way of making applications available, not a specific type of software with a specific purpose.
There are many programmes available on the market for a variety of industries, with e-commerce leading the way. SaaS supports various aspects of running a business. These range from office suites, graphics and video creators to sales automation, marketing or web monitoring software.
There are now services operating under this model that have such a wide range of applications that it is impossible to list them all. Here are the examples of SaaS that we come across most often:
- Systemy ERP: Microsoft Dynamics 365, Business Central Microsoft Office 365, Pakiet Google G Suite.
- Systemy CRM: Workbooks, CRM/Trasko, InStream.
- Mailing list building and messaging: MailChimp, GetResponse, Freshmail.
- Internet monitoring: Brand24, Atera, Netwrix auditor.
- Marketing automation: SalesManago, Hubspot, NetSuite.
- Sales automation: Chatbot, LiveChat, Growbots.
- Graphic creation: Canva, Visme, Sketch.
- Backup plików: Dropbox, Apex Backup Services, G Cloud.
- Group work: Slack, Trello, Box.
- Online shops: Shoplo, Sky-shop, IdoSell.
- Social Media Management: Buffer, Hootsuite, Sprout Social.
As you can see, the use of this solution is extremely widespread. It is difficult to imagine any company, regardless of industry, doing without SaaS services today. Certainly, this market will continue to grow rapidly and offer more and more advanced solutions to customers. There will be more and more programmes available from the cloud and, consequently, more and more customers. SaaS supports the operation of businesses, allows processes to be automated and innovations to be introduced at low cost, along with the necessary security features. 
What SaaS is all about - software as a service
Software as a service operates in a simple model. The provider provides the infrastructure and access to the software over a network. Users subscribe to the applications they need and have access to them for the duration of the subscription, which they automatically lose when the subscription expires, for example after not paying for the service for 30 days.
Tools available in a SaaS model are most often billed on a monthly subscription basis, making the cost less 'painful' to a company's budget than paying for a year's use of the application upfront. It's also a great way to try out the tool to make sure it meets all our expectations.
In SaaS, all technical issues, updates, backups, features and security are on the provider's side. It is also responsible for storing the data in such a way that it complies with RODO. This is an additional security buffer for companies - for example, in the event of an audit by the DPA. The user gets access on a pay-as-you-go basis - ongoing payment. Its only obligation is to pay for subsequent billing periods.
What are the advantages of using SaaS?
The popularity of SaaS platforms stems mainly from convenience. In this model, it is the provider that solves all problems and technical issues, develops the tool and keeps it up to date, taking this responsibility away from the customer. As a result, the customer has constant access to the latest version of the programme, independent of their hardware.
The SaaS model is a solution whereby the user gets a professional tool at a relatively low cost. And while we are on the subject of cost, it is also often pointed out that SaaS is economical.
Firstly, by using such tools, we can bill the service on a monthly basis. In addition, when you do not need access to the service, you can suspend your subscription for that time and reduce unnecessary costs.
Secondly, the user does not need to purchase the necessary hardware (servers) for the programme to operate. There are also no costs for the implementation and maintenance of the programme and the people who will service it.
Software as a service allows the software to be used anywhere, simply by logging into your account via a browser. Such a flexible solution will be particularly appreciated by people who travel a lot due to their professional duties.
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