Thanks for your explanation. I think we have different definitions of what an 'account' is. For me, an account is in which a user shares his contact information

Thanks for your explanation. I think we have different definitions of what an 'account' is. For me, an account is in which a user shares his contact information (maybe also business & payment info). That in itself doesn't add value. From your last comment, I gather that (to you) 'account' surmounts to 'access to the service or product'. If so, we agree. When you apply for Costco membership, you get something in return: the chance to buy products for less than they would normally cost. I don't see how that translates to the example provided. NB: I'm a publisher, marketer, editor, and designer. I develop software, but I'm not a programmer.