Monetization Models & Metering

Comprehensive monetization strategies including subscription models, usage-based pricing, value metrics, and advanced pricing mechanisms.

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What's in this category

  • Monetization model: How you charge for your product or service
  • Pricing metric: The unit of charge (per seat, per transaction, etc.)
  • Value metric: Metrics that scale with delivered value
  • Continuous vs. banded metrics: Graduated vs. flat pricing structures
  • Credit-based metrics: Token and credit-based pricing models
  • Consumption-based pricing: Pay-as-you-use pricing strategies
  • Usage-based pricing (PAYG): Per-unit consumption models
  • Capability-based pricing: Flat access to capabilities
  • Outcome/performance-based pricing: Success-based pricing structures
  • Subscription model: Monthly, annual, and multi-year strategies
  • Freemium model: Free tier with premium upgrades
  • Tariffs & market mechanisms: Linear, 2-part, 3-part, block pricing; auctions; pay-what-you-want; tie-ins (razor & blades)

How to use this

This category covers the fundamental principles that should guide all pricing decisions. Start here if you're new to SaaS pricing or need to establish a solid foundation before diving into specific tactics. These concepts apply whether you're a startup finding product-market fit or an enterprise optimizing complex pricing structures.

Coming Next

Detailed guides and frameworks for each concept are in development. This section will include:

  • • Step-by-step implementation guides
  • • Real-world case studies and examples
  • • Templates and frameworks
  • • Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
  • • Metrics and KPIs to track success

Dr. Sarah Zou

The SaaS Economist

PhD economist specializing in SaaS pricing and monetization strategy. Helping startups and scale-ups optimize their pricing for maximum growth.

Learn more about Sarah →

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