Development of a valid and reliable software customization model for SaaS quality through iterative method: perspectives from academia

Abstract

Despite the benefits of standardization, the customization of Software as a Service (SaaS) application is also essential because of the many unique requirements of customers. This study, therefore, focuses on the development of a valid and reliable software customization model for SaaS quality that consists of (1) generic software customization types and a list of common practices for each customization type in the SaaS multi-tenant context, and (2) key quality attributes of SaaS applications associated with customization. The study was divided into three phases: the conceptualization of the model, analysis of its validity using SaaS academic-derived expertise, and evaluation of its reliability by submitting it to an internal consistency reliability test conducted by software-engineer researchers. The model was initially devised based on six customization approaches, 46 customization practices, and 13 quality attributes in the SaaS multi-tenant context. Subsequently, its content was validated over two rounds of testing after which one approach and 14 practices were removed and 20 practices were reformulated. The internal consistency reliability study was thereafter conducted by 34 software engineer researchers. All constructs of the content-validated model were found to be reliable in this study. The final version of the model consists of 6 constructs and 44 items. These six constructs and their associated items are as follows: (1) Configuration (eight items), (2) Composition (four items), (3) Extension (six items), 4) Integration (eight items), (5) Modification (five items), and (6) SaaS quality (13 items). The results of the study may contribute to enhancing the capability of empirically analyzing the impact of software customization on SaaS quality by benefiting from all resultant constructs and items.

Construction of the Whole Process Management System of Day Surgery Based on the SaaS Model in the Context of the Medical Association

“…After the results of the second round of correspondence questionnaire were agreed upon by all experts, the correspondence questionnaire was stopped, and the whole process management system of day surgery based on the SaaS model in the context of medical association was formed. The criteria for the screening of indicators were: (1) The mean of importance assignment ≥ 3.50 points; (2) The coefficient of variation < 0.25; (3) The full score rate > 60% [5].…”

“…The enterprise can install various programs on the service platform within the company to cater to the different needs of consumers. Consumers can choose different programs and use them in different ways to enjoy a more convenient service experience [3]. By adopting the SaaS model, the expenses of primary hospitals can be greatly reduced, which is undoubtedly a highly valuable solution.…”

The Benefits and Challenges of Customization within SaaS Cloud Solutions

“…Customization in SaaS cloud solutions offers several benefits for businesses. Firstly, customization allows SaaS applications to be tailored to meet the unique requirements of individual customers [5]. This ensures that the software aligns with the specific needs and preferences of the business, leading to increased customer satisfaction [6].…”

A Framework for Evaluating the Reusability of Software-As-A-Service Using Fuzzy Logic Approach

“…Ali et al [17] used iterative method for developing of customization model for SaaS quality. The work has been divided into three phases: conceptualization, analysis and validity test.…”