Over here at the PiPlex, we use a LOT of software. We have maybe 15 different packages we use DAILY, and maybe a dozen more we use less often. For each one, there are multiple options (of course), and the prices vary as much as the features. So it should be simple, right? Figure out what you need, and then just deal with whatever it costs.
Not so fast there, cowboy.
As purveyors of excellent construction software, we are certainly in business to make money. Generally speaking, you can do that one of two ways: charge a lot fo money and sell it to a few people, or charge less money and sell it to more people. When software companies decide how to charge for their software, they can decide one of two ways: either by the size of the audience, or – and listen up here – how much they think they can squeeze out of their customers. We hate option #2.
We get that it’s all about how valuable a piece of software – or anything really – is to you. But what happens when something is valuable to you, but it’s just one PART of running your business? A measuring tape is an absolutely key piece of equipment in the construction business. Most contractors carry them into the shower with them. Luckily, LOTS of people make measuring tapes. As a result, the cost is pretty low. If we made a measuring tape and tried to charge $500 for it, we wouldn’t sell very many. Probably none. So why is software different? Primarily because although there are indeed a few companies making construction software, they all seem to think that they can charge high prices (up front fees, maintenance, etc) and get away with it.
So we say don’t put up with it. Cheap construction software doesn’t have to mean BAD construction software. Paying $99 a month for construction software seems impossible when you consider the prices of other packages out there. But if you build it right, make it solve as many problems as possible for customers, and make it easy to maintain, it’s absolutely doable. And should attract a lot of people.
Unlike that $500 tape measure. :O