Certain example embodiments provide a generic integration framework for connecting on-premises applications with software as a service (SaaS) applications, and/or for integrating the same. The framework of certain example embodiments involves a layered approach (including a Connector Development Kit, connection factory, metadata handlers, and connector services) that helps to, among other things, allow customization of applications in multi-tenant architectures. Design-time wizards help create runtime artifacts and, during runtime, the connector service helps serve as an intermediary between the on-premises application and the cloud service, thereby hiding the complexity of the specific cloud providers. Certain example embodiments advantageously provide a generic and well-integrated solution for connecting an on-premises application to a cloud service in connection with existing containers.