If you have ever used a video streaming or video chat service, then you have used a SaaS product. 

Regarding IT security and protecting your data, not all SaaS companies are up to the task. After the initial excitement of finding a new SaaS, how do you ensure you choose the right ones for your work at the University? 

The Software Risk Assessment process ensures that potential SaaS companies are secure and meet the University's IT and data standards. The approval process is an assessment of security, data protection, architecture and integration factors, which provides the necessary assurance.  

The University Business Partnering Team is there to guide you through the Software Risk Assessment (SRA). Always contact the Business Partnering Team before starting a free trial or subscribing. If you're considering purchasing a SaaS solution, let the team know and initiate the conversation early. 

When looking for new software you need to consider the following: 

• Have you reviewed your internal processes? 

• What is the problem you are trying to solve? 

• What do you need a solution to do? 

• What benefits will this solution bring to the University, and those using the SaaS? 

• What difference will it make to how you currently work or will need to work in the future? 

• What is the timeline for this SaaS if approved? 

• User access: Does the vendor/supplier support Multi-Factor Authentication and/or Single Sign On? 

 How long does the approval process take?  

This will depend on the complexity of the situation, the capacity of the team and the number of SaaS requests ongoing. A standard request typically takes at least two months, but this can vary.   

The earlier you bring Business Partnering into the discussion, the better they can help you navigate through the evaluation and resourcing hurdles. The University already makes use of dozens of SaaS solutions, so they may be able to identify one that meets your needs and already has approval.