from Hacker News

Ask HN: How can I monetize my product without charging for it?

by AncoraImparo on 1/15/13, 12:13 PM with 4 comments

So, here is my issue. I am writing a suite of development tools for C / C++. As I get closer and closer to completion, I am facing this issue. I want to make them freely available to the public, I don't believe in charging people for software, especially since I love doing it so much. I also don't want to open source my work, for security reasons. I was thinking I could make it free for everyone, and businesses who want support can pay an annual fee?
  • by thehodge on 1/15/13, 12:27 PM

    Charge for support Charge for specific features Make a Pro version Consultancy
  • by muellerwolfram on 1/15/13, 12:23 PM

    charging for support, or donations are two other options that I can think of