Variability Challenges And Design Approach Of Saas-Based Inventory And Sales Data Management System In The Case Of Small And Medium Enterprises In Adama City

Abstract

Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) is one of the important models of Cloud Computing (CC), in which software can be delivered as-a-service online on a one-to-many basis which can be an important step for individuals and organizations to have access to software products as on-demand service instead of purchasing a full-fledged software product. This way of getting software reduces the cost of having the software and other running resources. This kind of service delivery has become most popular especially for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the world since it greatly decrease cost of having ICT infrastructure and automated software system and so that they can outsource ICT related burdens for service providers and concentrate on direct business activities. However, since SaaS is about sharing of centralized single instance software and data architecture, service providers face problems of providing services of heterogeneous customer requirements. Since, most business customers have different business requirements; it is hard to satisfy all customers by developing standard application software. So an approach should be devised to develop a fully tailored and customizable application so that users can use an on-demand, self-service shared application. In this thesis, we have identified advantages of adopting cloud computing solutions for Small and Medium Enterprises in Ethiopia and explored the various requirement challenges facing in SaaS service offerings from different level of software architecture, conducted data collection and analysis based on taken case study automation system (development approach of online Inventory Management system). Then we developed a framework and development approach that helps SaaS developers in the development of business applications targeted SMEs. Finally, we have proposed SaaS-based Inventory management system and recommended to apply it in all cases off SaaS-based business automations.