BARD vs ChatGPT
On one of my subscribed YouTube channels this morning, there was a new video promoting a change to a subscription model for a company whose plugins I use, the new subscription only model was $14.99 pm or $149 per year for 110 plugins, the perpetual license plugins I’ve bought cost me $29.99 each (£24.53).
These were specialist audio plugins for a specific job in Davinci Resolve, soon after I’d bought them Resolve updated a version to include something similar in the package (!), this particular plugin company did have a few other plugins I might have bought but with the subscription only model, I now won’t bother.
The above prompted me to think about a blog item on Subscription vs Perpetual license, I’m not a fan of the subscription model and try wherever possible to avoid it.
Also in my Inbox that morning was my invite to participate in the Google BARD program, I’d already used ChatGPT and my thoughts turned to asking both BARD and ChatGPT to write the article for me so I could compare them…….
These were specialist audio plugins for a specific job in Davinci Resolve, soon after I’d bought them Resolve updated a version to include something similar in the package (!), this particular plugin company did have a few other plugins I might have bought but with the subscription only model, I now won’t bother.
The above prompted me to think about a blog item on Subscription vs Perpetual license, I’m not a fan of the subscription model and try wherever possible to avoid it.
Also in my Inbox that morning was my invite to participate in the Google BARD program, I’d already used ChatGPT and my thoughts turned to asking both BARD and ChatGPT to write the article for me so I could compare them…….
Firstly, ChatGPT:
Software subscription models offer affordability, regular updates, and access to additional features. They are more flexible and affordable for users as they require monthly or annual payments. Regular updates and upgrades ensure that the user is always using the latest and most secure version of the software. Subscription models can also provide access to additional features or services that would not be included with a traditional license. For small businesses or individuals just starting out, the lower cost of a software subscription model can be a significant advantage.
However, subscription models can be more expensive in the long run and limit users' control over the software. Monthly or annual fees may add up over time and ultimately cost more than a one-time purchase. Users only have access to the software as long as they continue to pay the subscription fee. Additionally, many subscription models require an internet connection to access the software, which can be a disadvantage for users who do not have reliable internet access. Finally, subscription models can be limiting in terms of customization as users may not be able to customize the software to meet their specific needs.
In conclusion, the decision to use a software subscription model or a traditional license depends on the user's specific needs and budget. While subscription models offer many advantages, they can also be more expensive in the long run, limit users' control over the software, and require an internet connection.
BARD from Google:
The software subscription model has become increasingly popular in recent years, as businesses of all sizes look for ways to reduce upfront costs and improve cash flow. In this blog post, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this model, and how it can be used to benefit your business.
Advantages of a software subscription model
There are many advantages to using a software subscription model. Some of the most notable include:
Lower upfront costs: When you subscribe to software, you typically only pay for the monthly or annual fee, rather than the full purchase price. This can be a significant savings for businesses, especially those on a tight budget.
Improved cash flow: A subscription model can help you to improve your cash flow by spreading out payments over time. This can be helpful if you have a lot of upfront costs, or if you need to make regular payments to suppliers.
Access to the latest features: When you subscribe to software, you typically get access to the latest features and updates as soon as they are released. This can help you to stay ahead of the competition and ensure that your business is using the latest technology.
Better customer support: Many software subscription providers offer better customer support than traditional software vendors. This is because they are constantly in contact with their customers and can provide support for any issues that they may have.
Disadvantages of a software subscription model
There are also some disadvantages to using a software subscription model. Some of the most notable include:
Potentially higher costs: Over time, a subscription model can potentially cost more than purchasing software outright. This is because you will continue to make payments even if you no longer need the software.
Vendor lock-in: When you subscribe to software, you are essentially locked into using that vendor's platform. This can make it difficult to switch to another provider if you are not happy with the service.
Limited control: When you subscribe to software, you typically have less control over the software than if you purchased it outright. This is because the vendor will typically be responsible for updates and maintenance.
How to choose the right software subscription model
When choosing a software subscription model, it is important to consider your specific needs and requirements. Some factors to consider include:
Cost: How much are you willing to spend on software each month or year?
Features: What features do you need?
Support: How much support do you need?
Vendor lock-in: How much control do you need over the software?
By considering these factors, you can choose the right software subscription model for your business.
The ChatGPT version printed out on-screen as it wrote and took around 90 seconds, the BARD version thought about it then presented the whole version, again in around 90 seconds.
Just a postscript to this - the plugin company have now backed down due to overwhelming demand from uses, and will continue to supply perpetual licenses for individual plugins - Result!
