Question

I've got an idea for an OpenStudy business model.

1) How about a developers license, a read-n-write API for developers. It would be used for accessing the incredible wealth of information available on this site. You could charge per request.

2) Premium should be changed: It should have a search feature, the premium users would be able to make their own private usergroups and even be able to "buy" help, like pay $2.50 to get help from a professional with a SmartScore of over 90 that has applied.

Answer 1

These are just a few of my ideas, I know that a few of them might ruin part of the openness of OpenStudy, but I know that OpenStudy must have some problems with server costs (even Reddit doesn't gain any profit), and these might help, this guy http://daltoncaldwell.com/an-audacious-proposal explains how the Web 2.0 ad-only approach doesn't always work (he had a large project but it failed do to not being able to pay its employees) and its better to make a more pay-oriented product thats really advantageous (but open to the public for regular users). Just ideas.

Answer 2

"Paid Help" option might put a question mark on the authenticity of "Open Help" and the integrity of OS (just like it ruins all the MMORPGs in the later half-cycle).

I would rather advice to diversify the subscription options. For e.g. I can easily afford $10/month with my pocket money but don't have a credit card yet (and don't wanna go through a truck load of explanations to use my parent's credit card.)

Answer 3

Also, the provision of getting an anonymous subscription would be greatly appreciated.