AI-Native vs AI-Augmented SaaS: How to Future-Proof Your Product, Pricing, and Go-To-Market Strategy
Guest: Ken Lempit, President & Chief Strategist at Austin Lawrence Group
The SaaS industry is entering its next major inflection point — and it’s happening faster than the shift from client-server to cloud.
In this episode of SaaS Backwards, Ken Lempit breaks down how artificial intelligence is reshaping SaaS product strategy, go-to-market execution, and competitive positioning. For many software companies, the real threat isn’t pipeline generation — it’s product obsolescence in an AI-driven market.
Ken explains how SaaS leaders should think about three strategic paths:
- AI-Native SaaS: Rebuilding your product from the ground up on a modern AI architecture.
- AI-Augmented Platforms: Embedding AI across workflows to increase efficiency and usability.
- Bolt-On AI Features: Adding differentiated AI capabilities to protect churn and strengthen retention.
The discussion explores how mid-market SaaS vendors are particularly exposed, why customers may “vibe code” their own point solutions, and how CEOs can protect revenue while building toward a longer-term AI-native future.
You’ll learn:
- How to tell if your SaaS problem is GTM or product-market fit in the AI era
- Tactical pricing strategies for introducing AI features
- Why defending churn may matter more than landing new logos
- What BackEngine’s evolution teaches about refining product-market fit
- Why every SaaS company needs a credible AI narrative — now
If you’re responsible for SaaS growth, profitability, or product strategy, this episode offers a clear framework for deciding whether to augment, bolt on, or rebuild.
Get your free SaaS GTM Checkup here.
Prefer to watch the episode? Check out this episode's video here.
Other resources to check out:
Interview with Vinay Bhagat, Founder and CEO of TrustRadius who publishes a yearly report about how B2B buyer behavior is changing.
The Lead Gen Mistake I Guarantee You’re Making – how to create content that better identifies intent from today’s b2b buyer.
And, if you want an outside look at your content with actionable advice, take advantage of our Content Audit. Valued at $20K in free consulting
