How not to implement software subscriptions

2 points by robomartin 3 days ago

We've been paying for Camtasia software for years. I can't remember when we started to use it.

Today the company sent out an email with the 2025 version download link along with the corresponding software key/s.

Well, the surprise is that they have decided the right way to transition to subscriptions was to automatically convert every single customer to the new model. In other words, no opt-in. If you are not paying attention, you'll be charged somewhere around $60 per license automagically.

Here's the interesting part. When we upgraded our permanent licenses, back in early April of last year, we paid for a full year of upgrades as well. Meaning, permanent license upgrades.

Well, their 2025 version, released today, is, per their support team, no-longer a permanent license. Which means that, if we do not agree to give them another > $60 per license next April, the upgrade we paid for a year ago evaporates and will no longer be usable.

I wonder how many customers are going to be hit with surprise subscription payments because of this automatic opt-in, only to then discover that the 2025 version they installed evaporates because it isn't tagged as a permanent license.

I understand the benefits of the subscription model for companies. I get it. Yet, this is exactly the wrong way to do it. If you want someone to stay a customer, do not force them into spending money they did not agree to spend. You do not have the right to automatically enroll them into a new subscription model AFTER they have made a permanent license purchase.

Side question: Now looking for alternatives to Camtasia. Paid or FOSS.