The Chasm Crossers and AI - Dealing with Subscription Price Increases
Once a company successfully crosses the chasm and enters the mainstream, new opportunities for product enhancement inevitably emerge. A prime example is the recent integration of AI into core software suites by giants like Microsoft and Google.
While AI promises to revolutionize
productivity, these companies have also increased subscription costs,
effectively "forcing in" AI technology.
How to Respond
This raises a critical question for consumers: what options
exist when a core suite of applications pushes a product that may not be
desired or affordable?
- Explore
Alternatives: Investigate competitive offers. Many companies offer
robust alternatives to Microsoft Office and Google Workspace at more
competitive price points.
- Embrace
Open-Source Solutions: Consider open-source alternatives like
LibreOffice, which offer a free and feature-rich suite of applications.
Image from Gemini AI. - Manage / Downgrade
Subscriptions: If possible, downgrade your subscription plan to a
version without AI features. This might involve sacrificing certain
functionalities, but it can significantly reduce costs. Purchasing Office
2021 is an option, reviewing license counts and adding shared mailboxes is another.
- Direct Feedback: Express your concerns directly to the companies. Contact customer support or utilize feedback channels to express your dissatisfaction with the pricing changes and the forced integration of AI.
Ultimately, consumers have the power to influence the
market. By exploring alternatives, managing subscriptions, or actively
voicing concerns, individuals can exert pressure on companies to offer more
flexible and affordable options.