February 24, 2023

Build Micro SaaS 3X Faster Using Low Code

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@8base

Micro SaaS is a relatively small piece of software designed to solve a specific problem (usually in a niche market). It is called "micro" because it has a very narrow set of features.

However, that doesn't mean the problems it solves are small or unimportant. Nor does it mean only a few people can use it. Micro SaaS can be used by millions of people.

For example, there are SaaS services that allow users to build a simple landing page with a list of links to other channels and products. And those SaaS solutions have millions of users.

Bottom line, micro SaaS is an excellent way to quickly create a functional business. One that doesn't require large investments or a lot of time before hitting the market.

How to build micro SaaS even faster?

Low code technology is a game changer. With a super-short learning curve, developers can 3x their productivity within 1-2 days of trying it out.

This is possible because low code has very few novel concepts developers need to learn. Instead, it's built on top of existing, well-known technologies like JavaScript, GraphQL, MySQL, and AWS.

Low code allows solo developers to:

  • Efficiently build both frontend and backend
  • Without any need for DevOps
  • While their apps are automatically scalable and production ready

And this makes it a perfect match for building a micro SaaS software business where speed and innovation are of paramount importance.

SaaS vs. Micro SaaS

SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) is a business model where you lease software through a subscription model. No installation is required as this software is usually accessible through a browser. And you always get the latest version of the software.

The main difference between a SaaS and a micro SaaS is the fact the former has a narrow set of features.

Usually, building a SaaS includes creating a wide set of features that cover many different use cases. And micro SaaS is usually used in small niche markets because that's where the most opportunities hide.

Big SaaS solutions try to appeal to a broad audience through the use of "generalistic" tools. And while this is a fairly successful approach, many problems in niche markets aren't adequately solved. People often use these generalistic tools because that's the best they've got and not because that's what they really want or need.

This means there are a lot of business opportunities for Micro SaaS in niche markets. You can learn more about these opportunities in this SaaS ideas article.

Vertical SaaS vs. Micro SaaS

Vertical SaaS, which is industry specific, is not necessarily a micro SaaS. For example, if you build a CRM for the insurance industry like LeadVolt, it's definitely not a micro SaaS.

Generally speaking, CRM can never be classified as a micro SaaS due to the minimal set of required features (which is sizeable).

Horizontal SaaS

On the other hand, a simple landing page builder with just a few simple features can be classified as a micro SaaS, regardless of its use in a single niche or by a wide audience in various industries. This is also known as horizontal SaaS.

Micro SaaS vs. Niche SaaS

Niche SaaS is very similar to vertical SaaS because it targets a specific industry. However, its targeting is even more specific. For example, a SaaS can be custom-made for a certain geographical location.

Let's say we're talking about software for the trucking industry. You can easily imagine some operational differences between driving in the cold north of Canada vs. the scorching deserts of Egypt.

However, this hypothetical software can still be a full-featured SaaS. Just because some solutions are hyper-niched doesn't automatically mean we're talking about micro SaaS.

Business Benefits Of Micro SaaS

Nothing is preventing a micro SaaS from becoming a full-fledged SaaS software business. In fact, micro SaaS is a great way to start a SaaS business.

Initially, you make a small bet on the most important feature. And if your assumptions are correct, the market will reward you with numerous users.

When you know you're on the right track, expanding your micro SaaS to include more features is much easier and way less risky. Until one day, you realize it's no longer "micro".

How Long Does It Take To Build Micro SaaS?

Usually, a micro SaaS will take anywhere from 1 to 2 months to build. However, using the low code technology, that time can be shortened to merely 1-2 weeks.

This goes to show how disadvantaged a project really is in the marketplace when it's not using low code.

And if you want to see what else can be built with low code technology, check out an article that contains various B2B SaaS examples.

To Sum It Up

Low code technology is, by far, the fastest way to build micro SaaS projects. 

Micro SaaS already has the lowest risk when creating a new product, plus it's reduced even more with low code. Because now you can create it faster and more cost-effective than ever before.

Your product can reach the market sooner, and the feedback loop between an idea and customer reaction can be as short as one week. This means low code can accelerate innovation like never before possible.

To Learn More About 8base Low-Code Technology

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