The scope, goals, and nature of running a business in a software as a service (SaaS) model can be difficult to define. The terminology and patterns that are used to characterize SaaS vary based on their origin. The goal of this document is to better define the fundamental elements of SaaS and create a clearer picture of patterns, terms, and value systems that are applied when designing and delivering a SaaS system on AWS. The broader goal is to provide a collection of foundational insights that provide customers with a clearer view of the options they should consider as they look to adopt a SaaS delivery model.
This paper is targeted at SaaS builders and architects who are at the beginning of their SaaS journey, as well as more seasoned builders who want to refine their understanding of core SaaS concepts. Some of this information can also be useful to SaaS product owners and strategists who want to get more familiar with the SaaS landscape.
