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> From: Ken Kirby <[log in to unmask]>
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: Re: Tier Pricing -Reply to reply
> Date: Wednesday, January 29, 1997 12:50 PM
>
> Ahh, the file server argument! Note in this example that, while the
> software is stored on only one machine, it is actually run on each
> workstation that uses it. Therefore, each machine is running a copy of
> the program. When you run a program in MPE/iX, it runs on ONE HP/3000,
> not several workstations. Your workstation only provides you with a
> window to access the HP/3000. Once again, one copy, one machine.

Exactly - I agree with the argument (btw - I hate tier pricing - but
here's the other argumet, although it dosen't fly either IMHO - that the
code is "shared" within MPE, therefore, you are gaining "value added" when
more than one user can access and execute the code.  The more users
"sharing" that code within MPE, the more "value added" as more users can
access it.  Remember, I agree with one license per machine, and I don't
buy the tier-based model HP uses, any more than I buy the user-based
license model for the 3000 either --- but the argument is out there, and
I'm just pointing it out.  It's still, one license for the machine.

> Another common misconception. Answer me this: the last time you bought
> PC software for your home, did they ask you how big your family is?
> Let's say it was a game in which several people could participate
> concurrently, such as Monopoly or Wheel of Fortune. Did they ask you how
> many friends and neighbors you were expecting to come over and play it
> with you? Once again, you bought a license for one copy per machine, not
> one copy per concurrent user.

See Above...

> Each phone call costs one quarter.
> No matter how big the phone booth is.
(Phone "booth"?  You're showing your age, Ken <g> --- I haven't seen a
booth in some time <g>)
> No matter how many elephants are in it.

Agree wholeheartedly.  One already pays *more* for the machine as the
model goes up (as does the performance, capabilities, etc.).  TurboStore
does the same thing, whether it's on a 928 or a 959-400, as does NS/3000
(which should be bundled IMHO, but who am I to say), and all of the other
software that executes on a 3000, whether marketed by HP, or any other
third party (Suprtool and Adager run equally well and do the same exact
things on a 928 and a 977, for example - and these vendors do not
tier-price, I might add!)

If Robelle Consulting and Adager can be successful with charging one
reasonable price for their software, no matter what the model, and they
are wildly successful, then so can others, and that includes HP.

My $.02 worth after reading most of this thread..

Best,
Joe "Fire Extinguisher in hand for any flames" Geiser

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Joe Geiser
CSI Business Solutions
[log in to unmask]
(soon to be [log in to unmask])
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