Thanks to the wide array of tools that have become available in recent years, it’s never been easier for enterprising developers to create innovative software. Individuals and companies that develop user-friendly software stand to benefit from monetizing their creations. Not only can monetizing software put fledgling developers on the map, it can also prove instrumental in protecting your programs from online troublemakers. |
If you’ve created a piece of software that people are interested in using, why not find a way to profit from it? Many people dream of being paid for doing what they love, so if you’re given the opportunity to turn this dream into reality, there’s no reason not to take it. Furthermore, if a piece of software develops a large enough user base, someone who programs as a hobby may be able to turn a favorite leisure activity into a full-time occupation.
There are a fair number of success stories centered on small-time developers monetizing their software. From Facebook billionaire Mark Zuckerberg to “Angry Birds” creator Jakko Iisalo, the digital age has seen many small fish come to dominate the pond. No longer do developers have to rely on backing from large corporations to create software that changes lives. Talented developers can now create corporations from their ideas.
Broadened User Base
Once your software becomes monetized, people will take notice — particularly if the program is user friendly and will make lives easier. As a bonus, gaining broader recognition ultimately means more money for developers. Business-savvy developers can use this as an opportunity to expand their influence and build companies from the ground up. Alternatively, developers who aren’t particularly adept at handling the business end of things can use sizable user bases as leverage when selling their creations to larger companies.
Broadening your software’s user base can also help you build a reputation as a power player in the programming world. When such innovators as Bill Gates, Larry Page and Sergey Brin entered the fray, none of them could have imagined the success they would ultimately attain — success that would not have been possible without loyal users.
Protection From Piracy It’s said imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but hardworking software developers may beg to differ. Virtually every piece of successful software is followed by countless imitators, many of which offer users nothing new or original. While this is undeniable proof that your program fills an important niche, it can be irksome to watch others attempt to profit from your ideas. |
This is where monetization and copyright go hand in hand. By obtaining a copyright for your software, you can take legal action against developers who create copycat programs. Developers who partner with large companies can also take advantage of the legal teams those companies have at their disposal. As Flexera Software explains, many developers fail to properly protect their creations.
Software monetization has its challenges, but it can be rewarding for developers who possess a sense of what users want. Developers whose programs simplify the computing experience should be justly compensated for their contributions to the digital age.
Software monetization has its challenges, but it can be rewarding for developers who possess a sense of what users want. Developers whose programs simplify the computing experience should be justly compensated for their contributions to the digital age.