In an exclusive conversation with CNBC-TV18, Goldberg noted that software will increasingly function in the background through AI agents, altering user interactions with applications without negating the need for enterprise platforms.
“The claims about the complete disappearance of the SaaS model are somewhat overstated,” Goldberg remarked. “While people will interact with systems differently, it doesn’t imply they will stop using them. Therefore, I’m not convinced that SaaS is becoming extinct anytime soon.”
His remarks surface amidst rising apprehensions among investors that innovations in generative AI and coding agents might disrupt the conventional software business framework and diminish the value of SaaS companies.
Goldberg asserted that AI would mark the next evolutionary phase for enterprise software. While cloud computing alleviated the burden of managing infrastructure and databases, AI agents will start to handle processes independently.
“Previously, we aided you by managing your software. Now, we will shift many scenarios where you have to operate software to agents instead. This represents the ultimate promise — managing processes rather than just the software,” he explained.
As per Goldberg, the genuine competitive edge for established software firms is rooted in years of customer relationships, domain knowledge, and reliable infrastructure rather than just coding prowess.
“With AI, you can generate code rapidly. However, what you cannot do quickly is collaborate with customers and refine the capabilities to truly meet their needs,” he stated.
He emphasized that durable and secure systems developed over time will continue to deliver value to enterprise clients.
“We possess exceptional infrastructure ensuring your data is secure, reliable, and swift. That takes years to establish. It’s not something you can easily create with a coding agent and request, ‘Build me this highly reliable, trusted system,’” Goldberg mentioned.
The NetSuite founder is also optimistic that AI will simplify company formation, but believes that human judgment and customer insights will remain vital.
“Yes, you can generate code swiftly, but outstanding products still emerge from in-depth understanding, which I genuinely believe comes from direct human interaction with customers,” he noted.
Goldberg urged businesses to embrace an AI-first mentality and recognize the rapidly evolving landscape instead of resisting technological advancements.
“Those organizations that endure are the ones that operate like startups and challenge, ‘Prove to me that the world isn’t fundamentally changing,’” he remarked.
While AI agents are anticipated to handle much of the routine work discreetly, Goldberg asserted that creativity, experience, and execution will remain critical.
“The essence of a successful company is your creativity, innovative ideas, and the execution of those ideas. We are poised to provide you with the freedom, time, and resources to do that more effectively than ever,” he concluded.
Watch the full conversation here
