Now that Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) and the broader cloud computing concept have gained widespread recognition and acceptance, it will be interesting to see whether online marketplaces will become a preferred method for acquiring these on-demand resources.

Given the proliferation of SaaS/cloud providers and solutions, it makes sense that many IT and business decision makers would like to take advantage of a “one-stop shop” where they can procure multiple SaaS apps and cloud services.

Online marketplaces also appeal to a growing number of service providers that want to expand their service portfolios to offer their customers more solutions designed to deepen their account penetration, create new revenue streams, and increase their stickiness in an increasingly competitive market.

Click here to read my views on the future direction of SaaS marketplaces in E-Commerce Times.