Contact Us

Why offer a SaaS free trial?

Mar 25 • 2 min read

Knowledge Base > SaaS > Why offer a SaaS free trial?

Software as a Service (SaaS) has become an increasingly popular business model for software companies. This model allows users to access software applications through the internet, rather than having to install and maintain them on their own computers or servers. SaaS companies often offer free trials to potential customers, which allow them to try out the software before committing to a purchase. Here are some reasons why SaaS companies offer free trials:

  1. Showcasing the Value Proposition: A free trial allows potential customers to experience the value proposition of the software without having to make a financial commitment. This can be especially important for new or innovative products that may not have an established reputation yet.
  2. Customer Acquisition: Free trials can help attract new customers who may not have otherwise considered the software. By offering a low-risk, no-commitment way to try out the product, SaaS companies can expand their customer base and increase their chances of converting those users into paying customers.
  3. Increased Engagement: A free trial can increase user engagement and promote brand awareness. Users who have a positive experience during the free trial may be more likely to recommend the software to others or to become paying customers themselves.
  4. Competitive Advantage: Offering a free trial can help SaaS companies stand out from competitors who do not offer such a trial. It can also be a way to differentiate the product from similar offerings in the market.
  5. Testing the Market: A free trial can be a way for SaaS companies to test the market and gauge interest in the product. If the trial is successful and generates interest, the company may be more confident in investing further in the development and marketing of the software.

In summary, offering a free trial is a common practice for SaaS companies, as it can help showcase the value proposition of the software, attract new customers, increase engagement, provide a competitive advantage, and test the market. However, it’s important for companies to design their free trials carefully and ensure that they provide a positive user experience, as negative experiences can turn potential customers away from the product.

Useful Links: 
  1. SaaS Trial Pricing Examples and Best Practices
  2. Should You Consider a Free Trial For Your SaaS Product?

Author

Common Questions

  • How long should a SaaS free trial be?

    The length of a SaaS free trial can vary, but most trials last between 7 and 30 days. This gives users enough time to fully experience the software, while also creating a sense of urgency to encourage them to make a purchase.

  • What are the benefits of offering a free trial?

    Offering a free trial can help attract new customers, increase engagement and brand awareness, and provide a competitive advantage. It can also be a way to test the market and gauge interest in the product.

  • What are the risks of offering a free trial?

    Offering a free trial can be costly, as it requires resources to set up and support the trial, and there is no guarantee that users will convert to paying customers. Additionally, some users may abuse the trial period and use the software without any intention of purchasing it.

  • How can I design a free trial that converts users to paying customers?

    To design a free trial that converts users to paying customers, focus on providing a positive user experience and demonstrating the value of the software. This may involve offering a guided tour or onboarding process, providing excellent customer support, and showcasing the key features and benefits of the software.

  • Are there any industries or types of software that shouldn't offer a free trial?

    While offering a free trial can be effective for many SaaS businesses, there are some industries or types of software where it may not be appropriate or effective. For example, highly specialized or niche software may not benefit from a free trial, as potential customers may already be familiar with the software and its capabilities. Additionally, some industries, such as healthcare or finance, may have regulatory restrictions on free trials or require additional security measures.

Related Articles