[hamilyon2]

I feel ambivalent about your work. First, I was very interested. The thing is your tool is a good approximation of what I am trying to do at my current work. So naturally, I was interested: maybe I learn something, maybe I can use your work. Maybe I'll even buy your solution if it fits my needs.

The next I know, tool is closed source, tool is windows executable (?) and the third and most important, pricing page is 'contact us'. There is no way I am trying your tool or contacting you for a quote.

[westonOG]

Hi, Thanks for you response. Here are my responses to your responses

"tool is closed source" I am open to changing to open source but I do not understand the business model yet.

"tool is windows executable" I created my program with C# and java. I had a sql server dev try to run it but he didn't have java installed on his computer. Apparently they have an intense dislike for java and avoid using programs that need java like the plague. LOL I guess I can't win either way?

"pricing page is 'contact us'" There is no lockout feature of the program that stops working after X days if you don't buy it. Also I am a 1 person startup. I am extremely flexible on pricing. I am not sure what people are willing to pay for it, so it is hard to put a price on it.

[joshSzep]

First priority, IMHO, is to support running on Linux and Apples.

For an open source business model consider "open core". Open source the core engine, and charge for additional features. I would recommend SQL Server and Oracle be paid enhancements as companies in that ecosystem are used to paying for tools. Keep postgres/MySQL/SQLite, etc open source as they are tools that developers using open source would be using.

Then charge through the roof for the additional features. I recommend at least two tiers: a lower price for access to the premium features, and an "Enterprise" tier which adds in support guarantees.

Don't do a one-time payment either. Make it a subscription to receive new updates etc.

The low tier could be ~$50/month, the high tier can be "contact for pricing": but if contacted start the discussion at $1000/month. Then allow them to negotiate a lower price, perhaps with your absolute floor being $500/month.

This is all armchair advice, so take it with a grain of salt. But I hope it is helpful.

[westonOG]

OK, Thanks for the info. I will keep that in mind.