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The Freemium Revenue Model

Some companies offer a free version of their service, but you have to pay for the advanced versions. Many companies are using this revenue model because it helps them make more money quickly. Companies like Flickr, YouSendIt, Evernote, 37signals, and PDF Online have all adopted this strategy. This means that they offer some services for free and then charge people for other services. Skype is one of these companies! This approach is a good way for businesses to make more money by getting people to use their services for free first.

Applicable industries

Companies offering web-based services with expansive target markets and ongoing customer benefits are the perfect fit for a freemium model.

Compatible products or services

The freemium revenue model is the ideal choice for applications such as file transfers, conversions, online media storage, and VoIP. After all, automating various processes can be done easily on these platforms. Plus with the bonus of no initial cost to get started, it's a great way to start exploring digital options without having any major financial commitment upfront!

Customer relationships

Freemium companies are predominantly centered around offering quality service to a large population of non-paying customers, with only a few opting for premium services. Both groups will have online contact points where tasks like registration, payment, and delivery of service can be done in an automated manner.

Marketing considerations for the freemium revenue model

Offering a stellar customer experience is key for Freemium companies. Their services must be easy to navigate, provide quick results and demonstrate continued value to their users. Upgraded versions should bring practical improvements with prices that correspond directly to the added benefit they offer consumers.

Operational implications of freemium

In order to succeed with a freemium model, companies must focus intently on creating an ample customer base while still providing cost-effective services for their free users.

Strategic and financial implications

To remain competitive, freemium companies must create a high-functioning web interface that can seamlessly deliver their product or service. Developing such sites requires adequate upfront capital and close monitoring of user numbers, customer acquisition costs, and conversion rates to premium products. Crafting an outstanding online experience is the key to success for any freemium company.

Modalities

When viewed from a different perspective, the premium level of a free option is similar to that of software-as-a-service (SaaS) or subscription revenue models.

Benefits and costs of the freemium model

To keep running costs low, the freemium model uses automated online service delivery. Yet, with a large user base comes a hefty infrastructure requirement; storage and bandwidth can become costly if usage is skyrocketing. As an example of this trend: in March 2009 Facebook had over 10,000 dedicated servers to enable users to upload 850,000 pictures every month!