The framework outlining the various costs associated with implementing Single Sign-On (SSO) protocols.
Description
In the context of the Single Sign-On (SSO) protocol industry, 'Cost Structure' refers to the comprehensive breakdown of all expenses related to the development, deployment, and maintenance of SSO solutions. These costs can vary significantly depending on the type of SSO protocol adopted, such as SAML, OAuth, or OpenID Connect. Key components of cost structure include software licensing fees, hardware infrastructure investments, and ongoing maintenance costs. Additionally, there are expenses associated with user training, integration with existing systems, and compliance with security standards. For instance, a business implementing an SSO system may incur costs for identity management software, cloud service subscriptions for hosting, and potential consulting fees for integration assistance. Understanding the cost structure helps organizations budget effectively and assess the return on investment (ROI) for their SSO initiatives.
Examples
- A company like Okta charges monthly fees based on the number of users for its SSO solutions, reflecting a user-based pricing model.
- Google Workspace offers SSO capabilities as part of its subscription plans, with costs scaling with the number of accounts and features required.
Additional Information
- The total cost of ownership (TCO) should be considered, including indirect costs such as user support and security audits.
- Organizations may save costs in the long run by reducing help desk requests related to password resets through SSO implementation.