Are you looking to build a software-as-a-service (SaaS) application to use in your own business or to launch to the mass market? The business change to include remotely-working positions is one of many reasons that have cemented the utilization of cloud-based applications. While many products are available, gaps in the existing product offerings leave room for new and innovative startups. If you are planning on diving into the SaaS market, you will need a good SaaS developer.
SaaS options dominate the market because they offer cost-effective and responsive solutions for businesses of all sizes with flexible pricing structures. However, even with the market seemingly saturated with SaaS products, there are still opportunities for products that fill gaps in existing products or build niche software designed specifically for small business applications. Therefore, when planning out your project, it is vital to ensure you have an experienced SaaS developer who will deliver the best possible end product.
SaaS Developers
The specialized skill set of SaaS developers allow them to streamline the development process. They can break the project down into actionable steps that do not overwhelm their clients. Developers can take a vision and build it into a fluid and versatile application. It is crucial to meet expectations for the end-user experience, and professional developers can deliver on that promise.
Top Four SaaS Development Companies
1. Mojolab – mojolab.xyz
If you are looking for a UI designer who excels at solving big problems through innovative applications, this is the developer for you. Mojolab specializes in SaaS development, web applications, React/Vue.JS, Node JS/AWS architecture, and user interface design.
2. PulseSolutions- pulsesolutions.com
Founded in 1997, Pulse Solutions is a full-service agency that builds mobile applications, custom business automation software, responsive websites, eCommerce enabled systems in addition to cloud-based SaaS systems.
3. Elinext- elinext.com
Elinext specializes in SaaS development, add development, web development, React, and mobile marketing. They pride themselves on hiring the most talented developers who work in co-located teams to offer exceptional service and adhering to a high level of customer service. They focus on utilizing the latest technologies that create progressive solutions for their clientele.
4. MakersHunt – makershunt.com
When you do not know who to trust, your project with MakersHunt is an excellent resource. They maintain a list of 100 of the best developers. You send your product description directly through MakersHunt, and it matches you with the best developers for your needs. You work through the platform for the duration of the project.
Cost
The size and scope of a SaaS application will determine the cost. There are many factors to consider. A simple application will take less time and be less costly than a complex application with many functionalities. Custom software development can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $100,000. Very complex applications can have even higher price tags.
It is essential to plan accordingly and have a firm concept in mind before beginning the development process. Make sure you know all of the functions you want to be included in the application. This can save many design hours and save a lot of money in the long run.
Time to Develop
Time requirements for completion will vary on how complicated your project is. Also, whether you intend on having a polished end product or launch with a minimum viable product (MVP) will affect your timeline. Beginning with an MVP will allow you to gather feedback from customers and tailor your final product accordingly. Regardless you should plan on your project taking anywhere from two to twelve months.
Stages of SaaS Development
It is best to familiarize yourself with the stages of the development process. This allows you to anticipate the needs of your development team. Open communication throughout the process is vital to the successful completion in a timely manner. The development process for SaaS applications is broken down into four stages: brainstorming, design, development, and testing.
1. Brainstorming/ Roadmap Development
This stage is where you will begin to map out the usability of your application. You and your design team need to map out your potential user. Once you have your target audience, you will need to define the parameters of your software. How will it function? What problem will it solve for the user? This stage is where your team maps out all of the features that will need to be included in the functionality of the product. Lastly, it is crucial to decide how you intend your product to stand out from your competitors. Also, keep in mind where you see this product going in the next year, five years, and ten years down the road.
2. Wireframes/Design Stage
This is the initial stage of your software. In this design phase, your team will lay out a basic framework for the intended software. This allows you to look at how the product will work and provide feedback for any needed adjustments before too much time is invested in the design process. As with all of the stages of development, it is important to communicate with your development team.
3. Development/Integration
Now is the time your team takes your design with the agreed-upon parameters and begins to build your product. The amount of time this stage dedicated to this stage will depend on many variables. Most importantly, the scope and complexity of the application will determine how long it will take the developers to design the product.
4. Security and Data Storage
From viruses and malware to stolen credit card data and identity theft, there are plenty of reasons why keeping your personal information safe is imperative. In fact, it is a topic that comes up repeatedly in the SaaS Development world as companies look to protect their customers and business assets from whatever threats slip through their fingers.
5. Testing/QA
This is the exciting moment that your hard work and determination pay off, and you will be able to experience your vision firsthand. You will be able to view the product as an end-user for the first time. Any UX issues that are discovered can be corrected before the final product launch. This is also the time to catch any bugs and fix them.
Bottom Line
SaaS applications are now an integral part of conducting business. Whether you are building an application to use in your own company or looking to build “the next big thing,” you must be familiar with the development process and the role of developers. You must begin your process with a clearly defined vision that you are able to clearly communicate with whoever is developing the software. Even if you plan on developing the application yourself, you will save vital time and money by having a solid development plan.
SaaS developers play an integral role in modern business. They are able to translate a vision into a tangible product. Their knowledge and skill can take an idea and turn it into a dynamic solution. At the same time, there are upfront costs to consider. The inclusion of SaaS solutions, on the whole, offers a healthy ROI. There are savings strategies that can be employed to stay within budget, like thoroughly researching potential development teams and having a clear vision of the end product.