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Vertical Search Engine Triples Paying Subscribers and Grows Prospect Database 10x with ‘Freemium’ Model

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Quick Overview

Since 1986, IDES has published a plastic materials database for engineers, designers and parts fabricators -- first on paper, then floppy disks and CDs, and then through a subscription website. Originally, only paying subscribers could access the database, but in 2004 they moved to a freemium model that allowed registered users to browse for free, but charged for advanced search features. The switch triggered explosive growth from a base of 3,000-4,000 subscribers to 310,000 fr...

 

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