SaaS (Software as a Service)
SaaS is a software delivery model in which applications are hosted by the vendor and accessed by customers over the internet on a subscription basis. The vendor manages all infrastructure, maintenance, security, and upgrades. SaaS is the dominant model for modern enterprise software and is the basis for cloud PLM offerings from all major vendors.
Why it matters
SaaS fundamentally changes the economics and responsibilities of enterprise software. Understanding what SaaS means in the context of PLM—especially which customizations are no longer possible and how upgrades work—is essential for realistic deployment planning.
Related concepts
External References
- en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Software_as_a_service
- nist.gov/publications
- nist.gov/system/files/documents/2014/09/26/nist_cloud_computing_saas_intro.pdf
- iso.org
- aras.com
- nist.gov/publications/nist-special-publication-800-145
- ptc.com/en/products/plm
- siemens.com/global/en/company/topic-areas/teamcenter.html
- 3ds.com/products-services/3dexperience
This term appears in
Cite this definition
Finocchiaro, Michael. “SaaS (Software as a Service).” DemystifyingPLM PLM Glossary, 2026, https://www.demystifyingplm.com/glossary/saas-software-as-a-service