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Thread: Software licensing - Window Store model

  1. #1
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    Default Software licensing - Window Store model

    I'm interested in hearing your opinions in regards to software licensing. Currently, I create a license file that a user must import before my software is fully enabled. It works well but can be annoying when a user wants to switch computers, for example.

    For those using Windows 10 (and maybe Windows 8) I might be able to put my application in the Windows Store so that they could pay for it via the Store and the Store would then manage the licensing. I haven't checked out the details of how it works but what I am hoping/expecting is that it would
    1) Allow fully functional free trials for some time period (e.g. a month).
    2) It would handle the payments (no need for PayPal transactions).
    3) In case you needed to switch computers it would handle that. I would not need to create a new license file. (Not fully sure how it prevents multiple computers, yet)

    Anyway, I am interested in your thoughts. It doesn't have to be for my software (Spaghetti). Just wondering how people feel about this in general before I consider doing this.

  2. #2
    Bradfo69's Avatar
    Bradfo69 is offline Pending BST Forum Purchases: $47,127,283.53
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    I don't use Windows Store for anything but, if that's what the instructions say I have to do, then that's what I would have to do and I'm fine with it.
    .
    I am absolutely one of those people that want to be able to have a program on multiple computers and I don't feel as though I should have to buy the multiple licenses in order to do that. Yes, I realize that you have to do that with the operating system as well as some other programs but, I realize that it can also be a problem for developers and revenue. Being tied to a dongle or DAC thing is "ok" and I live with it but, I routinely have at least 2 laptops set up identically for laser use in the event one has an issue during a show or event. And I'm almost as bad with laptops as I am with laser projectors.
    .
    On an item like Spaghetti with a relatively low purchase price and small niche market, does the assumed cost to you by the Windows store warrant that expense?
    PM Sent...

  3. #3
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    Do you mean having the Windows Store as the only way to purchase/own Spaghetti, or merely as an alternative? Personally I like it the best when there are multiple methods of getting the program so that the user can choose what is most convenient for them. For example I like Steam so I bought several programs, even non-games like Sony Vegas Movie Studio on there, but others might not like it that much. But I understand this would make it even more complicated for you, plus services like that usually charge a hefty fee, not sure how it is for the Windows Store.

    Personally I just say screw it and make the licenses for LSG not tied to a single computer. It removes the annoyance for users when switching PCs. Increases the risk of piracy but I don't make a lot from it anyway

  4. #4
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    Just scrap licenses all together and sell the software cheap enough so that users love it, licenses just annoy people, trying to over control your clients is a sure way to loose them.

  5. #5
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    Quote Originally Posted by andyf97 View Post
    Just scrap licenses all together and sell the software cheap enough so that users love it, licenses just annoy people, trying to over control your clients is a sure way to loose them.
    That isn't how it works in real life.

  6. #6
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    People are theives. If given the chance they will steal it. Don't bother pretending otherwise. Yes there are a few true but there are far more that are not. First time someone bundles your work and sells it you'll get it.

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