Q. With reference to “Software as a Service (SaaS)”, consider the following statements:
1. SaaS buyers can customise the user interface and can change data fields.
2. SaaS users can access their data through their mobile devices.
3. Outlook, Hotmail and Yahoo! Mail are forms of SaaS.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: d) 1, 2 and 3
Question from UPSC Prelims 2022 GS Paper
Explanation :
Software as a Service (SaaS)
SaaS is a software distribution model in which applications are hosted by a third-party provider and made available to customers over the internet. It allows users to connect to and use cloud-based apps over the internet.
Explanation for each of the statements:
1. SaaS buyers can customize the user interface and can change data fields.
This statement is generally correct. Many SaaS applications offer a degree of customization for the user interface and allow users to modify data fields to some extent. This means that organizations can tailor the software to better fit their business processes and preferences. However, the level of customization can vary significantly from one SaaS product to another.
2. SaaS users can access their data through their mobile devices.
This statement is also correct. One of the key advantages of SaaS is that it is accessible from any device with an internet connection, including smartphones and tablets. This enables users to access their data and work from anywhere, which is particularly beneficial for businesses with mobile workforces or those that support remote work.
3. Outlook, Hotmail, and Yahoo! Mail are forms of SaaS.
This statement is correct as well. Email services like Outlook (part of Microsoft 365), Hotmail (now Outlook.com), and Yahoo! Mail are indeed forms of SaaS. These services are accessed over the internet, and the software and data are hosted on the service provider’s servers.
Therefore, all three statements are correct.
