“Software as a Service (SaaS)” has been growing exponentially in recent times due to the trend that companies are now opting for low cost alternatives. The SaaS platform is considered to be an important milestone of internet services. The viability of SaaS to propel us into the next level of growth should not be underestimated. Though this view is fervently supported by many research firms and SMEs, there are inherent security concerns around the SaaS model. It is debatable whether data can be hacked into while in transmission, though most data providers say it is unlikely. While this is still in question, it is important that both vendor and client work together to develop security protocols so that the client’s data is always safe both onsite and offsite.

The benefit of using a SaaS model is that it provides manufacturers an easy way to upgrade their functionality as well as the ability to reach out to their clients easily. Because SaaS is just a model for the delivery of technology solutions, it is important that templates be created according to industry specifications in order to boost security and achieve optimum services. This is why it is vital for every company to develop their SaaS business application to run on the web. SMEs are increasingly growing conscious of the advantages of “Software as a Service” as this is undoubtedly a direct and affordable means to reach out to millions of customers.

The adoption rate of SaaS is not dependent on the firm size. SMEs have similar adoption rates as large enterprises but adoption is more dependent on the security aspect of the service. Vendors who invest on best practice technologies and ensure that the client data is sacrosanct are normally trusted by SMEs. Providers that rely on more suite-oriented application software that can confirm the clients’ data is secure are most approached by SMEs. In summary, though there are perceived security issues with the SaaS model, there are ways to circumvent these potential security breaches.