Service as Software

We started using the term Service as Software a couple years ago to explain human-powered services with software interfaces. Rather than Software-as-a-Service (SAAS) which means you subscribe monthly or rent it. SAAS usually involves some sort of do-it-yourself application. Service as Software is when someone knowledgeable or talented completes the service for you. You use an application to place an order and then software helps to facilitate the transaction. Usually a pay-as-you-go service. The application is is free to use. It is the person’s time or end-product you pay for. I have seen design, voice talent and legal services using Service as Software models. Some people have also called this “Labor in the cloud.” which doesn’t quite sound as attractive.

I know this is a big deal. Much bigger than do-it-yourself. Way better than artificial intelligence. Its more knowledgeable and talented than Mechanical Turk. We created Thincloud to help businesses achieve Service as Software nirvana. It is complicated work but worth it. If you thought products were cool, just wait. I believe when you combine them most talented people in the world with interfaces that allow their customers to commission work from them quickly and easily something beautiful will happen.

Posted on Apr 01, 2010 by Kevin Milden

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