PIM SaaS vs Open Source: questions to ask yourself when choosing
21 December 2022
When a PIM project is being considered within your organisation, several questions are bound to arise. Who will be in charge of the project? What objectives must this PIM fulfil within my strategy? How will we use this platform? When you look into it, the range of possibilities when it comes to PIM is quite extensive. However, one factor seems to set them apart: the technology used – SaaS or open source. How do you choose your development approach? What are the benefits and limitations?
SaaS vs Open Source: what are the differences?
SaaS (Software as a Service) platforms operate on a monthly or annual subscription basis, allowing users who have paid for their licence in advance to access the platform from anywhere. Often, the subscription price depends not only on the number of people using the solution but also on which features are included in the licence – or not.
Open-source software is, as the name suggests, ‘open’ – meaning it is available to anyone who wishes to access it, use the platform and make changes to the source code. Open-source platforms are often developed by communities rather than companies and are frequently less expensive than software developed as SaaS.
When it comes to PIM solutions, the SaaS and open-source models differ in several ways. Firstly, in terms of software deployment. In the case of a SaaS PIM, the software is hosted in the cloud and all users of the solution can simply access it via the internet. In contrast, an open-source PIM requires local installation and management. The company is therefore responsible for the infrastructure, amongst other things.
Cost can also be a distinguishing factor between a SaaS PIM and an open-source PIM. For SaaS PIMs, the initial costs are generally lower as there is no need to invest in servers or dedicated staff. Costs are often based on a subscription model and sometimes on a commitment basis. For open-source PIMs, even though the solution itself is free, costs can be higher due to expenditure related to infrastructure, maintenance and the deployment of updates, for example.
To help you get a clearer picture, PIM comparison guides are available to help you identify, based on your priorities and a range of criteria (user-friendliness, connectivity, international deployment, etc.), which PIM is best suited to your business.
What are the advantages and limitations of each?
- The time required for implementation and configuration before you can start using your PIM is often longer with open-source solutions than with SaaS, if you’re not familiar with coding – unlike SaaS platforms, which are ready to be installed and used straight away.
- Furthermore, the SaaS platform provider is responsible for the platform’s security and hosting, which takes an additional burden off your shoulders!
- Open-source software requires a certain amount of maintenance on your part, whereas SaaS providers also take care of maintenance.
- When it comes to support, SaaS software generally has the upper hand, as this aspect falls under their responsibility: they are obliged to ensure their software runs correctly and to keep it up to date. Conversely, with open-source software, you are responsible for your own support as you have carried out the installation and development of the platform yourself.
- Once again, security is guaranteed with SaaS software. You do not need to worry about hosting or servers. As the provider is responsible for the platform’s operation, the same applies to security. With open-source software, as you are responsible for hosting the software, you are also responsible for its security. You therefore need a dedicated team that can ensure the software’s security and prevent any potential vulnerabilities and/or threats.
- Customisation is a challenge that open-source platforms rise to, as the code can be modified by anyone. If you have the necessary skills, you can therefore modify the software’s specifications, as well as its features and design. Nevertheless, SaaS software allows you to make changes and customisations to the front-end (the user interface) of the solution and to modify certain features. Some SaaS platforms also offer you the option to access certain plugins or extensions.
- Once again, integration is a feature included in SaaS applications, either by the provider itself – as with Quable and its Quable Air methodology – or by integration partners. For open-source platforms, integration is carried out manually on your end, but if you have the appropriate resources, you can customise the integration of your PIM, choose plugins, extensions, etc.
SaaS or open-source: which is best for your needs?
Your choice between a SaaS or open-source PIM depends primarily on the objectives of your IT system and your overall goals as a brand. If customisation and personalisation of your PIM solution are key priorities for you, then open source seems to be the better option. On the other hand, if you do not wish to bear the responsibility for the solution’s maintenance, security and support – even though it may seem more expensive in terms of development – then the SaaS model is the better option. In the long term, a SaaS PIM is therefore advantageous from a financial perspective. If simplicity and speed of implementation are crucial objectives for you, the SaaS model is recommended; however, if international deployment is your current priority, an open-source PIM may have a slight advantage in this regard.