Can AI SASS products be launched with lifetime payment in the early stage?

Question

I've been thinking recently, can SAAS applications that use APIs of AI infrastructure such as OpenAI adopt lifetime payment to attract early users? Does anyone have any practice or experience in this regard? Thank you very much.

Xinshu Ta · Accepted Answer

I think you should launch as early as possible.

Domenic Yang · Answer

I think it's not acceptable. AI SaaS often implies high computing costs, and pay-as-you-go is reasonable. In the initial stage, one can lower their profits, but selling lifetime packages is not permissible.

SaaS. Steven as a Service · Answer

Hi Kensen
That's a good question.  Its one I have considered myself for my app. However feedback from various people including accountants and business leaders advised its wasn't appropriate which was my reservation on it too because a lifetime payment (or subscription payment) needs to prove to users why a one-time payment is worth it, which can be hard to do in the early stages of a products life and runs the risk of turning users away.

Instead, I have adopted for free service to provide the high level output and a low price on the other outputs that the app provides.

Janak Patel · Answer

Yes, launching AI SaaS products with a lifetime payment can attract early adopters and boost initial revenue. Just plan for long-term sustainability!

Kensen · Answer

@steven_davis6 Makes sense, thanks for your suggestion

Answer

I'd say it depends on your product and target market. A lifetime payment could work well for an AI SaaS if the value prop is super compelling and the price reflects the long-term value users will get. But you'd need pretty high confidence it'll deliver on that promise to charge upfront. A cheaper or free entry-level tier to let folks try it out first is probably safer in the early days. Then you can consider adding lifetime options once you have proven demand and staying power. Just my 2 cents!

Can AI SASS products be launched with lifetime payment in the early stage?

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