Software as a service (SaaS) companies are increasingly turning to the model of sharing their software with others. This is similar to how Airbnb shares housing with travelers - why not do the same with your software?
Shataz
Posted on 2025-10-05
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When Airbnb revolutionized the way we think about space, it didn’t just create a platform — it introduced a mindset: you don’t need to own something to make value from it.
Now, the same idea is starting to echo in the software world. The question is — why not Airbnb your software?
Imagine if your software, unused codebase, or idle system could be “rented out” to others who need it temporarily, just like how Airbnb lets people rent their homes. The concept sounds futuristic — but we’re already seeing hints of it happening.
SaaS was the first step. Instead of selling licenses, companies began renting out access to software — monthly, yearly, or usage-based.
But now, with APIs, containerized deployment (like Docker and Kubernetes), and cloud-native infrastructure, the next evolution is here: Software-as-an-Experience (SaaE) or On-Demand Software Models.
Rather than building everything from scratch, businesses are beginning to “plug in” other people’s ready-made systems — from AI chatbots to payment modules — for short-term use.
Here’s how “Airbnb for software” could look in practice:
Developers lease code — Instead of selling a one-time license, developers rent modules or components for short durations.
Businesses share infrastructure — A company with excess server or software capacity could rent it to another firm needing it temporarily.
Microservices marketplaces — Platforms where small, reusable software units are traded, rented, and customized — almost like renting a digital apartment.
This model unlocks a new level of flexibility. It’s like the gig economy for code.
Lower Costs for Startups: Instead of massive upfront software investments, startups can temporarily “borrow” technology.
Faster Innovation: Companies can test features without committing to full builds.
Sustainability: Unused software resources (like internal tools) get repurposed instead of abandoned.
Collaboration over Competition: Developers and companies build together — and share profits.
Of course, this model has hurdles:
Licensing and ownership complexities
Security and data privacy risks
Compatibility between environments
Trust — just like Airbnb needed reviews and ratings to succeed
But these are solvable problems, especially with blockchain identity, sandboxed APIs, and improved cloud orchestration.