If you are like me, the number of subscriptions that you hold continues to climb. I now subscribe to the electronic version of six magazines and newspapers. I made the jump to Office 365 and have several other software subscriptions. I can’t count the number of apps that I subscribe to on my phone—although I’ll shout out to the MLB app (go Rays!).
Even Apple is concerned about my subscriptions. A tip recently popped up on my phone showing me how to unsubscribe in the subscriptions section of my settings. Who knew?
These days, there is a lot of buzz about the Membership economy. So first, what is that?
Membership economy is the mindset that brands and organizations are trying to build long-term relationships with customers and clients even after just one purchase or use.
If you are not fully tuned to this business strategy, I suggest reading Tien Tzuo’s book, Subscribed. Tzuo was Salesforce employee number 11 and is a committed evangelist for software as a service. He makes the point that every service and most products can be converted to a subscription model, and he offers some fascinating examples. Check out Fender Play, the subscription app that the iconic manufacturer of electric guitars offers so you can be jamming in no time.
Here are three subscriptions that I use almost every day.
Office 365 / IT services
My IT guy switched us over to a monthly subscription service, and for a monthly fee, he provides the 365 licenses, monitors our computers, and provides a slug of consultation time. Occasionally, I’ll arise to see that my computer has been restarted, which means my guy has invoked some update or safety feature. It’s been pretty pleasurable to have confidence in our technology.
Snagit
A screen capturing tool produced by TechSmith. I’ve used Snagit for years, but the subscription model means that I get the frequent upgrades for free and have access to very effective training materials. To me, there is no better tool for teaching, explaining, and demonstrating. Snagit makes it easy to capture a screen and add graphics that enable you to make a very clear point. It’s been a no-brainer to renew.
Peloton
Oh, the miles I’ve pedaled. It’s always too hot and humid in Florida to enjoy outdoor exercise in the summer, and with the shutdown of most fitness clubs, it was an easy decision to join the millions of Peloton subscribers. It’s been amazing to see they way that Peloton builds community, but the metrics alone would have kept me subscribed. Join me – I’m known as Gardengator – look for me in Century Shirt.
What has the Membership Economy meant to you? What are your favorite subscriptions?
THE FUTURE IS NOW!
