15 {{ upvoteCount | shortNum }}
15 {{ upvoteCount | shortNum }}

Do you prefer hosted services or software you can install and run yourself?

by MrPete2000
12 replies
Hi all,

I've got a great web app that I built mostly for personal use but am now seriously considering making it available to others but I'm not 100% sure on what delivery method users prefer... so I'm counting on your input to help me decide.

1. Hosted app (software as a service) - I take care of everything and users get a login and limited resources depending on monthly plan purchased. (so monthly payments and limited access)

2. Purchase license and host on your server - Pay one time or yearly license and host on your own server/hosting for unlimited use. (cheaper overall and no limits, but requires installation)

I kind of like option #2 as a consumer because it gives me more privacy and less restrictions. The up-front cost sometimes makes me turn away, but if it's good software I'll usually go for it.

Your thoughts?
#hosted #install #prefer #run #saas #services #software #webapp
  • Profile picture of the author hassan007
    Licensed Software, because this way I will get it on my hosting and I can change the way I want it with the help of some coder if I don't know the language, also I will be able to change the template and styles of the APP... Hosted apps doesn't satisfy me much....
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[7129413].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Alexa Smith
      Banned
      Is this another way of asking "Do I want to pay for something and still be dependent indefinitely on the vendor's website working, to be able to use it, or do I want to pay for something and not be dependent indefinitely on the vendor's website working, to be able to use it?" Or did I miss the point? (I sometimes do, when the word "software" is mentioned, because I don't really understand that. )
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[7129436].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author MrPete2000
        Originally Posted by Alexa Smith View Post

        Is this another way of asking "Do I want to pay for something and still be dependent indefinitely on the vendor's website working, to be able to use it, or do I want to pay for something and not be dependent indefinitely on the vendor's website working, to be able to use it?" Or did I miss the point? (I sometimes do, when the word "software" is mentioned, because I don't really understand that. )
        That's another point, and a good one.

        The point is that I'd like to get some feedback before I myself decide to launch my app in one format or the other... but thanks for your input, it's very valid!
        Signature

        ...

        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[7132865].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author blillard
    I personally like software that I have to install because like Alexa said I don't like being dependent on someones servers remaining up. In the past I have had this problem with software that was hosted and it really upset me when the developer decides to pull the plug for whatever reason.

    One thing I do wish is that some of the software that I plan to use all the time had an auto start feature so I didn't forget to load it when I got started for work; hate to admit that I sometimes forget to load them at start.
    Signature
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[7132893].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Rob Whisonant
    Why not offer both options? Have a hosted version you charge monthly for and a self hosted version you sell for a one time price. You could give say 3 months technical support with the self hosted version and then charge for additional support.

    This way you cover both markets.

    Re's
    Rob Whisonant
    Signature
    FREE Email Marketing Quick Start Course! Start Building a Profitable Email List Today!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[7133053].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author MrPete2000
      Originally Posted by Rob Whisonant View Post

      Why not offer both options? Have a hosted version you charge monthly for and a self hosted version you sell for a one time price. You could give say 3 months technical support with the self hosted version and then charge for additional support.

      This way you cover both markets.

      Re's
      Rob Whisonant

      That's not a bad idea. I never really even thought about the fact that some people would request ongoing support for self hosted products (I never have, so I just don't think about it).

      Thanks for the input.
      Signature

      ...

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[7134116].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Anonymous Affiliate
    I prefer hosted services (SaaS), even if that means that I have to rely on the vendor's website to use it (obviously, assuming it's a reliable vendor).

    Why? many reasons: instant updated done on their end, they optimize their server better than I do mine, no IP/proxy blockouts, not cluttering my computer's resources, etc.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[7134836].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author MrPete2000
    So far the results show a slight skew towards a self-hosted preference.

    I guess the next question would be more relevant for those that prefer the SaaS solution:
    As far as pricing is concerned, how many months of a hosted service (SaaS) would you consider fair for the equivalent price of the Self-Hosted app?

    4 months? 6 months? 1 Year??

    I'm trying to figure out how others perceive value in such apps and hopefully hit a reasonable price point for both versions. Your input is very much appreciated and thank you to those who have already made their voices heard!
    Signature

    ...

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[7135835].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author MA Robinson
    Just like what Rob said, offering both options will definitely expand your market reach. But on technical support, offering it for free on both versions will be a good idea. Imagine having to pay for additional support when you have already paid for the software.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[7138202].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author MrPete2000
      Originally Posted by MA Robinson View Post

      Just like what Rob said, offering both options will definitely expand your market reach. But on technical support, offering it for free on both versions will be a good idea. Imagine having to pay for additional support when you have already paid for the software.
      Yes, I agree there should be some free support included regardless of the option selected. It's only fair considering it's been paid for!

      Thanks for your thoughts.
      Signature

      ...

      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[7142692].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author techbul
    I have to go with licensed software I can install. Sometimes, when I really like a tool, I go a step forward and code my own similar piece, so I end up with a better version instead
    Signature
    Get Unlimited Unique Content for Just $7
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[7142997].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author dcbaker1
    Option 2 is the best. It guarantees me that I still can use it even when your business falls apart.

    Tip: Make a clear installation guide.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[7143010].message }}

Trending Topics