From seats to outcomes: How AI is changing pricing (with Kyle Poyar)
Dec 19, 2024
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Kyle Poyar, a pricing expert and creator of growthunhinged.com, sheds light on the rapidly changing landscape of pricing models due to AI. He discusses the shift from traditional seat-based subscriptions to outcome-based pricing strategies that align with customer value. Poyar also shares insights on the challenges facing incumbents and the pivotal role of leadership in navigating these changes. Alongside predictions for 2025, he emphasizes the importance of adaptability in pricing to stay competitive in an AI-driven market.
AI advancements are driving a shift from traditional seat-based pricing models to innovative outcome-based structures that reflect customer success.
Organizations face challenges in redefining pricing strategies and compensations to align incentives with ongoing customer value in an AI-driven landscape.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Pricing Models with AI
Traditional pricing models in the software industry have experienced significant disruption due to advancements in AI technology. Companies are now moving away from standard seat-based pricing to more innovative structures that better reflect the value delivered through AI capabilities. For example, Intercom's introduction of a pricing model that charges based on the number of support tickets resolved autonomously highlights how organizations are shifting towards outcome-based pricing. This model not only aligns costs directly with the benefits provided but also encourages a focus on customer success as a core revenue driver.
The Shift Towards Outcome-Based Monitoring
The rise of AI has necessitated a rethinking of how businesses measure and monetize their offerings. Companies must now define clear units of measurement that accurately reflect the value provided to customers. In cases where AI effectively replaces human labor, organizations can adopt models such as charging a percentage of recovered funds, as seen in ChargeFlow's approach to chargeback management. This transition not only reshapes customer engagements but also encourages businesses to continuously evaluate their pricing strategies in reaction to performance metrics.
Challenges in Transitioning to New Pricing Models
While innovative pricing structures present exciting possibilities, they also come with a unique set of challenges for companies transitioning from traditional models. Organizations must navigate complex conversations surrounding pricing strategies, ensuring that customer success teams are equipped to handle metrics that directly impact revenue. Adjusting sales compensation plans is also vital, as aligning incentives with ongoing customer value and success takes precedence over initial contract sizes. This transformation requires collaborative efforts across teams to redefine financial management metrics that reflect the fluidity of usage-based pricing.
Future Predictions for Pricing Strategies
Looking forward, companies that successfully leverage AI will differentiate themselves through innovative pricing strategies that reflect their value proposition. As competition grows, businesses face the challenge of establishing a strong market presence amidst a noisy landscape, prompting a potential shift toward consideration of Gen.AI engine optimization in marketing strategies. Furthermore, the demand for brands to showcase authenticity and originality will rise, compelling them to engage creatively across channels. Overall, the journey toward adopting agile pricing models will necessitate strategic foresight and adaptability to maintain a competitive advantage.
Because of AI, pricing models are changing fast - and they're not just disruptive to incumbents, but also to how teams operate.
With Kyle Poyar, we discuss new pricing models focused on outcomes and units of work - and what ramifications they come with.
(00:00) - Introduction
(03:19) - The Evolution of SaaS Pricing
(06:04) - How AI is changing pricing
(09:31) - Challenges and Strategies in AI Pricing
(27:01) - Challenges for incumbents
(36:31) - It comes down to the CEO
(40:24) - Hybrid pricing
(42:18) - 2025 Predictions
Check out Kyle's article on the new pricing models here.
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