The concept of subscription models are already quite popular in the SaaS B2B market. Thanks to the emergence of Cloud solutions that make software products available to the business on a subscription basis. Subscription models have had its impact on the consumer markets as well as on the B2B and enterprise-level business environments. To keep up with the evolving business model, customer lifecycle management techniques need to be adapted and evolve, so that it can address unique challenges and opportunities presented by this shift.
Challenges of the Subscription Model
Shifting customer expectations: Customers in the subscription model expect ongoing value, seamless onboarding, and clear communication throughout their journey. They are less tolerant of stagnant features or lackluster service experiences. For products like CRM software, ERP and other similar products, it’s important to deliver top-notch services in a recurring manner.
Increased focus on retention:Traditional customer lifecycle management (CLM) strategies often focus on acquisition. However, in the subscription environment, retaining existing customers is paramount, as acquiring new ones is significantly more expensive.
Managing churn rate: Churn, or the rate at which customers cancel their subscriptions, is a constant concern. CLM strategies must incorporate tactics to identify at-risk customers and implement proactive measures to prevent churn.
Data-driven decision-making: Subscription models generate a wealth of data on customer usage, preferences, and behaviors. CLM needs to leverage this data to personalize experiences, identify upselling opportunities, and predict customer churn.
Opportunities in the Subscription-based Model
Predictable revenue streams: Subscription models offer businesses more predictable recurring revenue, allowing for better financial planning and resource allocation.
Deeper customer engagement: Continuous interactions with customers throughout their subscription journey foster deeper engagement and create opportunities for building stronger relationships.
Data-driven insights: By analyzing customer usage data, companies can identify trends and patterns, allowing for targeted interventions, feature improvements, and personalized offerings.
Increased customer lifetime value (CLTV): By focusing on customer retention and satisfaction, subscription models have the potential to increase CLTV, boosting overall profitability.
Adapting CLM in the Subscription Era
Focus on onboarding and adoption: Ensure a smooth and informative onboarding process that helps users understand the value proposition and quickly experience the benefits of the subscription.
Personalized communication: Leverage data and user behavior to tailor communication, providing timely support, relevant content, and targeted offers.
Offer flexible subscription plans: Cater to various user needs and budgets by offering tiered subscription plans with different features and pricing options.
Proactive engagement: Monitor customer behavior and implement strategies to address potential pain points or dissatisfaction before they lead to churn.
Leverage customer feedback: Regularly gather and analyze user feedback to understand their needs, identify areas for improvement, and improve the overall subscription experience.
Wrapping Up
When it comes to CLM strategies, evolution is the key. Unlike the traditional acquisition model, the subscription model allows customers to access the benefits of a product without even acquiring it. The best part of the subscription model is that it creates opportunities to foster loyal customer relationships, drive recurring revenue, and achieve greater success in the evolving business landscape which is otherwise not possible for acquisition models..
