Micro-SaaS Is Dead. Service With A Software Replaces It
A software developer argues that the traditional Micro-SaaS model is becoming obsolete in favor of 'Service with a Software.' This approach prioritizes building private, bespoke tools for specific client workflows rather than creating generalized products for mass market sale.
Why it matters
It challenges the prevailing startup culture of scaling and selling software, suggesting that niche, non-commercialized tools may offer more sustainable value for independent builders.
Private tools that never get sold, built to make one service impossible to compete with.
I built a SaaS in a few hours. It does its job better than tools people pay real money for. And I will never sell it.
Every instinct trained into technical people over the past decade says that’s leaving value on the table. Landing page, Stripe, launch post, recurring revenue. That script is practically a religion in indie circles.
I think that script is now obsolete. What I’m doing instead, I call Service with a Software: private tools that never get sold, built to make one service impossible to compete with. I’d bet it’s the strongest position left for independent builders. Here’s why, starting with the tool I’ll never sell.
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