Published: 27 May 2024
Enterprise application leaders need to navigate the complexities of implementing SaaS enterprise applications with update cycles in mind. This document provides recommendations and strategies to mitigate risks, optimize the implementation process and maximize value.
SaaS enterprise applicationupdates are controlled and driven by vendors.The enterprise application functionalities at the start of the initiative and at go-live may not be the same, as updates will likely occur multiple times during implementation.
Organizations may be able to defer some updates during implementation. Still, they cannot “completely” disregard them, risking unexpected costs and delays during the project if they aren’t addressed in time and form.
Some vendors help organizations by defining each update with an “impact category” (from “disruptive” to “no impact”). An update’s impact on a SaaS enterprise application depends nevertheless predominantly on the organization’s business processes
Clients can log in to view the entire document.
Analysts:
Tomas Kienast, Tim Faith, Alexander Buschek
Gartner research, which includes in-depth proprietary studies, peer and industry best practices, trend analysis and quantitative modeling, enables us to offer innovative approaches that can help you drive stronger, more sustainable business performance.
Our independence as a research firm enables our experts to provide unbiased advice you can trust.
Not only is Gartner research unbiased, it also contains key take-aways and recommendations for impactful next steps.
Our research practices and procedures distill large volumes of data into clear, precise recommendations.
We provide actionable, objective insight to help organizations make smarter, faster decisions to stay ahead of disruption and accelerate growth.
We offer one-on-one guidance tailored to your mission-critical priorities.
We work with you to select the best-fit providers and tools, so you avoid the costly repercussions of a poor decision.
Connect directly with peers to discuss common issues and initiatives and accelerate, validate and solidify your strategy.
Gartner clients can log in to access the full library.
Attend a Conference
Experience Information Technology conferences
With exclusive insights from Gartner experts on the latest trends, sessions curated for your role and unmatched peer networking, Gartner conferences help you accelerate your priorities.
Gartner CIO & IT Executive Conference
São Paulo, Brasil
© 2026 Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved. Gartner is a registered trademark of Gartner, Inc. and its affiliates. This publication may not be reproduced or distributed in any form without Gartner's prior written permission. It consists of the opinions of Gartner's business and technology insights organization, which should not be construed as statements of fact. While the information contained in this publication has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, Gartner disclaims all warranties as to the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of such information. Although Gartner business and technology insights may address legal and financial issues, Gartner does not provide legal or investment advice and its insights should not be construed or used as such. Your access and use of this publication are governed by Gartner’s Usage Policy. Gartner prides itself on its reputation for independence and objectivity. Its insights are produced independently by its business and technology insights organization without input or influence from any third party. For further information, see Guiding Principles on Independence and Objectivity. Gartner publications and other content may not be used as input into or for the training or development of generative artificial intelligence, machine learning, algorithms, software or related technologies.
