Ask OutlinerSoftware: Subscription vs One time pricing?

Posted by BrainTool
Jan 17, 2022 at 06:20 PM

Hi All,
I’m getting close to the point of enforcing licensing on my BrainTool browser extension.

I’ve seen some comments here and from some BT early adopters that some people will only consider one time pricing. I’d love to get some thoughts from this group.

My current model is a 1:10 ratio for monthly to yearly pricing ($4/mo or $40/yr). I’m considering adding one or both of the following:
- 1:10:25 pricing, whereby a lifetime subscription option is 25 times the monthly sub (in this case $100)
- Stop paying the sub at any time, you no longer get updates or support but keep access to the version you are on.

BrainTool is Freemium, open source (the free version will always be, not sure about paid features), and gives you full access to your data in plain text (org-mode) format. I want to compete on features and utility, not lock in. You can see the current pricing page here: https://braintool.org/pricing

Is 1:10:25 the right ratio? Does ongoing access to your paid up version alleviate the need for a one-time price?

Thanks and regards,
Tony