If we participate in an accelerator or a deal platform that promotes heavy discounts (like those startup perk programs or AppSumo-type deals), will that help us gain long-term customers or mostly attract deal-seekers who may not stick around?

Based on what our SaaS pricing book, Price to Scale, explains, heavy discounting through accelerators or deal platforms tends to accelerate sales but often attracts deal-seekers who may not convert into long-term, loyal customers. Here are some key points from the book:

• Heavy discounting can speed up the sales cycle, but as noted on page 270, it may have negative long-term impacts on the brand and overall profitability. The deep discounts often generate short-term revenue but might not translate into enduring customer relationships.

• The book emphasizes the importance of segmenting your customer base. Not every discount fits every customer. For instance, some customers who sign up at a deep discount may simply be bargain-hunters rather than long-term users. Strategic segmentation can help tailor offers and pricing structures to attract customers who are more likely to stick around.

• Instead of unilateral deep discounts, Price to Scale recommends offering alternatives such as upgrades or bundled add-ons that require a commitment (such as longer-term usage). This approach helps manage customer expectations while positioning your product for long-term relationships.

In summary, while participating in platforms like accelerators or AppSumo-type deals can generate quick traction, our book advises a careful, segmented strategy to ensure you're attracting customers with lasting value rather than just deal-seekers. It's important to maintain a balance between accelerating sales and building a sustainable, loyal customer base.