How many software subscriptions do you have? A few? Ten? Maybe more? Most people have at least a few subscriptions, but sometimes you need more.
The problem with software subscriptions is that you could end up spending hundreds or thousands of dollars every year unnecessarily. For instance, you need to evaluate your software before jumping in. Something that looks great might not be what you need.
Although some applications are useful, you might not need as many software subscriptions as you think. Here’s how unnecessary subscriptions might be draining your money.
- There is a big marketing push for more applications
It seems like every piece of software is presented with an advertisement that makes it irresistible, almost as if you cannot live without it. While this might be true for some applications, it’s not always true.
For instance, if you’re a professional graphic designer, you probably require Photoshop. However, you don’t necessarily need to subscribe to a full Adobe software suite.
Try not to buy into the hype. When you see a new application being advertised, listen with an open mind, but always schedule a demo and try it out for yourself before you commit to another subscription. Give yourself time to think about it before you hand over your payment information.
- Although expensive, the software subscription model is ideal
Once you get a taste of cloud-based apps, you’ll know it’s ideal. That’s a great outlook, but it can make it hard to identify unnecessary subscriptions.
Before cloud computing became a standard, software was distributed as a one-time paid-for download that was used locally. All you had to do was enter a serial number and you could use your software. When updates were released, you’d get a message asking you to download an update.
Why cloud-based software is better
Today, most software is paid for monthly or annually, with the occasional lifetime licensing option. Although this model financially benefits software developers, it also benefits the user.
Cloud-based software has infinite resources available, which means users don’t have to rely on their local machines for the software to function as intended. Best of all, updates are handled on the back end, so users never have to think about updating core files.
The existence of better software doesn’t mean you need it
If you’re hanging onto software subscriptions just because you know the applications are superior quality, consider revisiting your actual needs.
Do you use it on a daily basis? Is it critical? If you don’t use it often, can you pause your subscription until you need to use it again? You might have to pay more per month to reinstate your subscription, but you’ll still save money by not paying for it in the meantime.
- Sometimes free options are good enough
Did you get a Photoshop subscription just to make a quick flyer for a friend? Next time you need software for a simple, quick project, look for a free option first. For instance, you can use Gimp to make basic flyers that are just as good as anything you can create in Photoshop.
Another option is to hire out the task you need completed. If your only option is to buy a subscription to use the software, don’t get hooked into a long-term commitment just for a single project. Post your needs on Craigslist or any other online classified ad website and outsource the task.
- It’s easy to forget what you’ve signed up for
Remembering what you’ve signed up for can be a challenge. Can you name all your subscriptions? Some people don’t even remember signing up for something until they see the charge clear in their bank account.
It’s way too easy to forget what software subscriptions you’ve signed up for, especially when you sign up for free trials that turn into software subscriptions automatically. This could be draining your wallet without your knowledge.
Try to create a system for tracking your free trials so you never forget to cancel before you get billed. If you have to, write it on a yellow sticky note and put it on your computer monitor so you’re constantly reminded that your free trial is almost over.
Subscriptions are here to stay, but you don’t need them all
Software subscriptions aren’t going away anytime soon, so be selective with your purchases. Choose your software intentionally, test it before committing, and don’t be afraid to cancel a subscription when you aren’t using the application.
