value-based pricing model
A potential future for software pricing, proposed by David Friedberg, where companies pay for outcomes and completed work (like a service) rather than per-seat licenses, driven by the capabilities of advanced AI.
First Mentioned
2/7/2026, 11:23:51 PM
Last Updated
2/7/2026, 11:26:46 PM
Research Retrieved
2/7/2026, 11:26:46 PM
Summary
A value-based pricing model is a strategic approach that sets the price of a product or service based on its perceived value to the customer rather than the cost of production or competitor rates. This model is particularly effective for unique, luxury, or high-utility offerings, such as pharmaceuticals, specialized software, and AI-driven services, where the benefits—like improved health outcomes or increased efficiency—justify a premium price. While it allows for higher profit margins and strengthens brand positioning, it requires intensive market research and a deep understanding of customer willingness to pay. In the evolving technology landscape, this model is increasingly relevant as SaaS companies shift from seat-based licensing to capturing value through 'agentic layers' and AI-driven outcomes, as discussed in recent financial and technology forums like the All-In Podcast.
Referenced in 1 Document
Research Data
Extracted Attributes
Risk
Potential loss of price-sensitive customers if value is miscalculated
Key Advantage
Higher profit margins and improved brand loyalty
Primary Focus
Perceived customer value and willingness to pay
Comparison Model
Contrasts with cost-plus, competitor-based, and demand-based pricing
Implementation Requirement
Significant investment in customer research and segmentation
Timeline
- Discussion of SaaS industry disruption and the shift toward capturing 'future value' via AI agentic layers in the All-In Podcast. (Source: Document 342d17d9-ae1f-4358-80c2-8f314f25a650)
2024-01-01
- Harvard Business School highlights the 'Value Stick' framework as a method for firms to maximize profit margins through value-based strategy. (Source: HBS Online)
2024-01-01
Wikipedia
View on WikipediaCapital asset pricing model
In finance, the capital asset pricing model (CAPM) is a model used to determine a theoretically appropriate required rate of return of an asset, to make decisions about adding assets to a well-diversified portfolio. The model takes into account the asset's sensitivity to non-diversifiable risk (also known as systematic risk or market risk), often represented by the quantity beta (β) in the financial industry, as well as the expected return of the market and the expected return of a theoretical risk-free asset. CAPM assumes a particular form of utility functions (in which only first and second moments matter, that is risk is measured by variance, for example a quadratic utility) or alternatively asset returns whose probability distributions are completely described by the first two moments (for example, the normal distribution) and zero transaction costs (necessary for diversification to get rid of all idiosyncratic risk). Under these conditions, CAPM shows that the cost of equity capital is determined only by beta. Despite its failing numerous empirical tests, and the existence of more modern approaches to asset pricing and portfolio selection (such as arbitrage pricing theory and Merton's portfolio problem), the CAPM still remains popular due to its simplicity and utility in a variety of situations.
Web Search Results
- The Value-Based Pricing Guide
A value-based pricing model offers a clear benefit for businesses, affording them the ability to charge a premium for their products and potentially boost their revenues. However, value-based pricing is as much an art as it is a science and typically requires more effort than other, more straightforward pricing models, such as cost-plus, competitor-based or demand-based pricing strategies. In fact, should a company miss the mark with its value-based price points, the strategy can have a negative impact on customer perceptions, sales and, ultimately, the company’s overall financial performance, so it’s important for companies to implement the strategy carefully. Key Takeaways [...] ## What Is Value-Based Pricing? Value-based pricing is a strategy that assigns prices to goods or services based on their perceived value to customers. Essentially, the approach centers on a business charging customers the price it determines they are willing to pay for a specific offering. [...] Unlike other pricing strategies, value-based pricing involves determining the value of products and services by looking at their worth from the customer’s point of view. ## When to Use Value-Based Pricing While value-based pricing may seem like a logical way to price goods and services because it aims to align the price of a product with its worth to the customer, it’s not the best option for all businesses. Companies selling highly commoditized products, like milk and flour, that are relatively indistinguishable from those offered by rivals, for example, might be better off opting for a cost-plus pricing model, since it may be difficult to define a unique value proposition for goods with only minimal differences.
- Value-based Pricing Strategy
### What is value-based pricing? Value-based pricing is a strategy that sets prices based on the perceived value of a product or service to the customer. Rather than focusing on production costs or historical prices, this approach ensures prices align with customers' willingness to pay. This way, you capture the benefits and unique value your product or service provides. ##### Pros and cons of a value-based pricing model vs. a cost-plus pricing model [...] Value-based pricing focuses on setting prices based on the perceived value to the customer, which is influenced by the unique benefits, solutions, and improvements that a product or service offers. This approach is relevant for any industry where customers recognize and are willing to pay for the specific advantages provided. For instance: #### Healthcare Pricing for pharmaceuticals and medical devices is often based on the health benefits they provide, such as improved patient outcomes or reduced recovery times. #### Technology Software and digital services, like productivity tools or cybersecurity solutions, are priced according to the efficiency and protection they offer to users. #### Agriculture [...] Value-based pricing typically results in higher profit margins versus cost-plus or competitive pricing methods. Since this strategy aligns prices with customer benefits, you gain insights that help to differentiate your products and services. This can enhance your market position and create a competitive edge. Meanwhile, customers are more likely to feel satisfied with their purchase, leading to increased customer loyalty and reduced churn.
- Understand Value-Based Pricing: Key Strategies and ...
## What Is Value-Based Pricing? Value-based pricing centers on setting product prices primarily on the value that customers assign to the product or service. This customer-focused strategy allows businesses to determine pricing based on how much they believe customers are willing to pay, rather than simply factoring in production costs. Companies with unique offerings or high-value features find significant advantages in leveraging this model over competing in price-driven markets. [...] Value-based pricing sets prices based on the perceived value of a product or service to the consumer, and it is most effective for unique or luxury items that enhance self-image or create exceptional experiences. Unlike cost-plus pricing, which relies on production costs and a profit margin to set prices, value-based pricing focuses on customer feedback and perceived value to determine price points. Companies utilizing value-based pricing must maintain strong communication with customers and focus on product differentiation and quality to justify higher prices. While value-based pricing can allow for higher price points and foster brand loyalty, it requires significant investment in understanding consumer perceptions and may result in losing price-sensitive customers. [...] Value-based pricing is different from cost-plus pricing, which factors the costs of production into the pricing calculation. Companies that offer unique or highly valuable features or services are better positioned to take advantage of the value-based pricing model than companies that chiefly sell commoditized items. ### Key Takeaways
- How Value-Based Pricing Boosts Revenue Growth
### Higher Revenue and Profit Margins One of the standout advantages of value-based pricing is its ability to unlock more revenue from existing customers. Instead of relying on cost-based calculations or competitor pricing, this method aligns prices with what customers are genuinely willing to pay. By tailoring prices to the perceived value of different customer segments, businesses can maximize returns. A great example of this is Zenefits, which uses a tiered pricing model. Their approach allows businesses to select packages that suit their specific needs, with additional features - like payroll management - offered at higher price points. This strategy ensures customers pay more as they receive more value, driving overall revenue growth. [...] When customers see that a business respects their budgets and priorities, it strengthens the relationship. This tailored pricing model not only builds trust but also encourages customer advocacy. Satisfied customers who feel understood are more likely to recommend the business, reducing the cost of acquiring new customers and amplifying positive word-of-mouth. ### Better Brand Positioning Beyond increasing revenue and loyalty, value-based pricing helps sharpen a company’s brand image. This strategy pushes businesses to clearly define and communicate their product's unique benefits, setting them apart in competitive markets and justifying premium pricing through perceived quality or exclusivity. [...] ### Implementing Value-Based Pricing Successfully implementing value-based pricing isn’t just about boosting revenue - it’s also about creating a competitive advantage. The process builds on the research phase and requires collaboration across the organization. Start by combining customer research and segmentation with a competitive analysis to evaluate your product’s value proposition. This analysis helps identify where your product stands out and where customers might see room for improvement. Next, develop a pricing model that reflects customer perceptions of value. Unlike cost-plus pricing, which adds a markup to production costs, or competitor-based pricing, which aligns with market rates, value-based pricing focuses on what customers believe your product is worth.
- A Beginner's Guide to Value-Based Strategy
## What Is a Value-based Pricing Strategy? Value-based pricing is a business strategy that primarily relies on customers’ perceived value of goods or services to determine cost. “Value for customers is the difference between their appreciation of a product or a service and what they have to pay for it,” says Harvard Business School Professor Felix Oberholzer-Gee in the online course Business Strategy. The value stick framework offers a helpful way of visualizing the tenets of value-based pricing and how firms can maximize profit margins while creating more value for customers and suppliers. Free E-Book: How to Formulate a Successful Business Strategy Access your free e-book today. DOWNLOAD NOW ## The Value Stick