Saturday, January 18, 2025

Chasm Crossers and AI

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.
    Wedging into your wallet.
    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.