IDCs definition of ASP is, that ASPs are service firms that provide a contractual service offering to deploy, host, manage, and lease what is typically packaged application software from a centrally managed facility.
Customers gain access to the applications through the Internet or dedicated leased lines.
High-end ASPs include USinternetworking, IBM Global Services, EDS, USWeb, FutureLink, Oracle Online, Corio, ServiceNet, and World Technology Service. IDC expects the ASP market to be driven by the increased acceptance of outsourcing, vendor ASP evangelism, mergers and acquisitions, improved networking technology, and e-commerce. Market inhibitors include customer acceptance, optimization of applications to run over the Internet, and continued support from independent software vendors. To overcome these concerns and grow the market, ASPs must create industry confidence through established and successful long-term customer references.