SaaS (Software as a Service)

SaaS is a software delivery model where applications are hosted by a vendor and accessed by users via the internet. Users pay a subscription rather than purchasing a license, and the vendor manages all infrastructure, updates, and maintenance. Cloud PLM is a SaaS model.

Why it matters

SaaS transforms the economics of software from capital expenditure (CapEx) to operational expenditure (OpEx), making it easier for smaller organizations to adopt enterprise tools without major upfront investment.

Cite this definition

Finocchiaro, Michael. “SaaS (Software as a Service).” DemystifyingPLM PLM Glossary, 2026, https://www.demystifyingplm.com/glossary/saas-software-as-a-service