Originally posted here by g00n
Lots of software requires you to buy the newer versions when they are released, the perpetual license would give you a permanent v8 lic? I don't like it, but i can see why they would then make you buy v9. New version = new product (in some peoples eyes)...

what would be better would be an upgrade version v8-v9, that's say 1/2 the cost of full v9.. that'd be better, will it happen? only if enough people complain and they feel that they won't get repeat business on newer versions.
Lots of companies DO require you to buy the newer versions -- in fact, most companies do. There's nothing wrong with that.

What would be best in this case is NOT linking Upgrade Insurance to the Perpetual License. I mean, sell me a perpetual license that is truly perpetual. Then when I get ready to buy an upgrade, sell me an upgrade at a price that is reduced from the cost of the first time purchaser -- thereby rewarding me for product loyalty. If somewhere along the line I decide I want all upgrades in a given year for a one-time-per-year price THEN sell me Upgrade Insurance.

Software publishers SHOULD make money off of each version -- that's what encourages continued development. But they should do so by setting reasonable pricing strategies that do not appear depend on the gullibility of their customers. Making customers mad doesn't promote product loyalty.

Director