This currently seems to be the only successful business model. Give something for free to get traction. Then slowly erode the free part, and try to get as many

This currently seems to be the only successful business model. Give something for free to get traction. Then slowly erode the free part, and try to get as many people as possible to run on the subscription treadmill. In most situations open source, open protocols and open data formats are an anathema to the cash register going ka-ching. When you start spending other peoples money, they are sure to remind you of this simple fact.