by Anson Scoville If you own a business today then you are no stranger to the evils of software pricing. If you have looked at implementing a companywide ERP then, chances, are, the sticker shock on ERP cost has kept you up at night. No matter the size of the business, the rising cost of software is becoming more and more challenging as businesses rely more and more on software. One recent memory from my tenure at a prominent business exemplifies this struggle. It was approaching year-end and the rush to finalize the current year while simultaneously preparing for the next year was unmistakable. As we approached the close of another fiscal cycle with revenue nearing an impressive two billion dollars, every department was deeply entrenched in refining their budgets. Amidst this flurry of business activity, a particular evening stands out vividly. It was when my IT Director entered my office, a hint of concern disrupting his usual composure. What he conveyed was unsettling: our longstanding software provider, a recognized name in personal and business software, was proposing a daunting 30% software subscription fee increase for the upcoming year. Software Pricing Increases Our ensuing conversation mirrored a broader industry dilemma regarding software pricing and software subscription annual increases: Me: “Have they introduced any significant updates or enhancements this year?” IT: “Not really.” Me: “Have they integrated innovative features to improve our operational efficiency?” IT: “Unfortunately, no.” Me: “Have they consistently provided excellent service and partnered with us to overcome challenges?” IT: “Not quite.” These revelations highlighted a concerning reality: escalating costs without corresponding value addition—a stark reflection of the dynamics within the business software landscape. ERP Costs escalate – prioritizing their profits, not yours This narrative wasn’t unique to my organization. Software providers offer Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software, particularly public companies who have a primary duty to their shareholders not their customers, revenue growth is primary. This business model negative impacts the customers who grapple with a landscape marked by rising ERP cost, opaque pricing models, and limited customer-centricity. The consequences extend beyond financial strain, affecting organizational morale and stifling innovation. It’s a sobering reminder of an industry where short-term gains often overshadow long-term partnerships and sustainable growth. A customer first software subscription approach Recognizing these systemic challenges, INFAWORK emerged as a solution. At its core, INFAWORK transcends traditional paradigms, advocating for a customer-centric approach grounded in transparency, collaboration, and genuine partnership. Our mission goes beyond transactional engagements; it embodies a commitment to fostering enduring relationships, driving innovation, and delivering tangible value for our clients. Our transparent pricing model starkly contrasts with industry norms of hidden costs, vague pricing structures, and 3rd party resellers. If you ever see “Call for Pricing” advertised then run the other direction. Translation: “Call so we can understand exactly how many of your hard earned dollars we can extract from you”. When you go to a store, does the price tag ever say “Call for Pricing“? The INFAWORK difference Through affordable pricing structures, continuous improvement, collaborative innovation, and transparent communication, INFAWORK aims to redefine industry standards. We envision a future where all businesses have access to a scalable infrastructure solutions they can tailor to their unique business needs, fostering an platform where efficiency thrives, innovation flourishes, and entrepreneurship prevails. We want to help businesses succeed. We define our success by our customer’s success. The journey ahead In this transformative journey, INFAWORK remains steadfast in reshaping the business software landscape. Through unwavering dedication, collaborative innovation, and a relentless focus on customer success, we strive to set new industry benchmarks, ushering in an era defined by mutual respect, transparency, and shared success. To read the first part of this series, CLICK HERE