Developer version and Designer version

[Chad]

I would suggest selling the developer version as the designer version. Having the code helps everyone because that way anyone can write mods or features for the software easily and likewise, anyone can use them. Does that make sense?

[juven14]

Yes, while having the code does make it easier for some users, it also opens up much larger needs for support. People with access to the code usually have more complicated questions and make more changes which usually make it more difficult to troubleshoot. I suspect this is why there are 2 versions. You can do quite a bit with the designer version with modules and smarty plugins, but you'd have to ask the right questions to get started.

[Eric Barnes]

Plus making custom php code changes makes upgrading difficult because you then have to go and change everything again. This is the reason for the modules and the template system.

[Chad]

I'm likely not going to make myself very popular here for a minute but.. I understand your points there guys and I don't disagree totally but what I believe, is that having the code available, yes it makes support a bit more complex but then again, you have the disclaimer about custom code not being supported. At that point it becomes community supported. Let some of us field the questions on those. I just know it's going to be more difficult to compete out there with encrypted code, especially in the php world, the world of open-source.

There are some stiff competitors that do give the code out at the same or less cost initially. I would LOVE to see more people get the developer version so we could see some more cool user-mods posted in the forums. People sharing ideas and helping each other write nifty features rocks.

[juven14]

Originally Posted by Chad

I understand your points there guys and I don't disagree totally but what I believe, is that having the code available, yes it makes support a bit more complex but then again, you have the disclaimer about custom code not being supported. At that point it becomes community supported. Let some of us field the questions on those. I just know it's going to be more difficult to compete out there with encrypted code, especially in the php world, the world of open-source.

There is an open source version for those who are willing to pay for it. Not everybody needs the developer version, and those can get the script for a lower price. While it is an investment, it can pay for itself.

Originally Posted by Chad

There are some stiff competitors that do give the code out at the same or less cost initially.

I'd like to think they don't really compete as far as support goes, while they may have similar features, I doubt they offer the same level of support, otherwise this script wouldn't be around or as prominent as it is. Plus, how many of those scripts are truley built from the suggestions of their users, updated, and security tested? Honestly, I don't think the price is that steep when you look at other software that may not make you a dime, and costs $300+

Just my two cents - have you noticed I seem to have an endless supply of pennies, lol.

[Chad]

You're right on the support issue. That's the reason I'm a customer. You guys rock.