From webopedia
Application Service Providers (ASPs) are third-party entities that manage and distribute software-based services and solutions to customers across a wide area network from a central data center.
In essence, ASPs are a way for companies to outsource some or almost all aspects of their information technology needs.
According to ASPnews.com, ASPs are broken down into five subcategories:
� Enterprise ASPs -- deliver high-end business applications.
� Local/Regional ASPs -- supply wide variety of application services for smaller businesses in a local area.
� Specialist ASPs -- provide applications for a specific need, such as Web site services or human resources.
� Vertical Market ASPs -- provide support to a specific industry such as healthcare
� Volume Business ASPs -- supply general small/medium-sized businesses with prepackaged application services in volume.
ASPs may be commercial ventures that cater to customers, or not-for-profit or government organizations, providing service and support to end users.
You can visit
http://www.aspstreet.com to see some of the solutions out in the marketplace.