When considering Single Sign-On (SSO) implementation, understanding the costs and timelines helps businesses plan effectively. This guide breaks down what you can expect when implementing SSO across your organization.
SSO Costs Vary By App
Here at TUCU Managed IT Services in Toronto & Durham, we help our clients setup SSO. To help clients navigate their SSO options, we explain that:
- Not every app offers SIngle Sign On (though hundreds do).
- Every app will have it’s own SSO cost, set by the app developer (they vary greatly).
- Some apps have clear documentation for SSO integration and some do not.
We help clients build their list of desired SSO integrations.
We then determine which apps have clear documentation, and which do not. We compile it all into a project document to deliver, along with a quote for SSO setup.
Today, we share real costs and timelines to help you get a sense of SSO setup costs for your company. Let’s dive in.
Implementation Timeframes
For applications with established SSO support, implementation typically takes 30-60 minutes per app.
There are two sides to each setup:
- app side enablement
- SSO side integration
This means you start within the app, in your admin dashboard, and follow the steps to enable Single Sign On from within the app.
After that is enabled, you or your IT provider will enable to SSO integration.
You can save time by having your IT provider do both the app and SSO side work.
You can save money by doing the app side SSO enablement and then asking your IT provider to complete the SSO integration.
Quick-Integration Apps
These applications offer straightforward SSO setup with clear documentation:
- Slack
- Stripe
- Dext
- WiseStamp
- Microsoft 365 tools
- Zoom (requires Business or Enterprise plan)
- DocuSign
- 3CX
Enterprise-Level Implementation
Some applications require additional planning and enterprise-level subscriptions, which can significantly increase your costs. Some examples include:
- HubSpot (Enterprise tier)
- Canva (Enterprise tier)
- Cloudflare (Enterprise tier)
- LinkedIn Business Tools (Advanced Plus)
- Figma (Organization/Enterprise plans)
Cost Factors
License Requirements
Many applications require specific subscription levels for SSO:
- Slack: $15/month per user (Business+ tier)
- Zoom: $250/month minimum (requires 10 Pro seats)
- Enterprise applications: Custom pricing based on organization size
Implementation Costs
Your Managed IT Services Provider will charge time for the work, which may be either:
- Simple “Time and Materials” billing if you are an existing client with them, and they already manage your email tenant.
- Project-based pricing for new tenant implementations.
- Additional costs for complex integrations or custom requirements.
Infrastructure Considerations
- Cloud identity management platform costs.
- Security certificate requirements.
- Ongoing maintenance and support.
ROI Considerations
Direct Cost Savings
- Reduced password reset support tickets.
- Lower security incident risk.
- Decreased administrative overhead.
- Minimized downtime from access issues.
Productivity Benefits
- Faster application access.
- Reduced login friction.
- Streamlined onboarding.
- Improved security compliance.
How long does it take to setup SSO?
It depends. The number of apps, and the documentation available for each will directly impact time required, and total cost. Here are some real world examples.
Small Business (5-10 Apps)
Project Timeline: 1-2 weeks
- Basic SSO configuration.
- Standard application integration.
- User training and documentation.
Mid-Size Business (10-20 Apps)
Project Timeline: 2-4 weeks
- Mixed application portfolio.
- Multiple user groups.
- Security policy implementation.
Enterprise Implementation
Project Timeline: 4-8 weeks
- Complex application landscape.
- Custom integrations.
- Comprehensive security requirements.
Getting Started
To ensure a successful SSO implementation:
- Review your application portfolio
- Assess current subscription levels
- Plan necessary upgrades
- Develop implementation timeline
Ready to explore SSO implementation support for your organization? Contact our team for a customized quote based on your specific needs.
TUCU is a Toronto based Managed IT Services Provider specializing in Cloud Security and Microsoft 365 Management. We support WIndows PC and Mac Apple IT based teams. How can we help you?
