Is "free" really free when it comes to social media platforms or other web or app based consumer products? My answer is a resounding "no" but I am not sure everyone sees it that way.  When creating alska and coming up with a pricing structure we were met with skepticism when saying we would charge customers a monthly fee of $8.99.  Some said "Consumers won't pay when there are so many free products."  Many said we should make it free to the consumer and generate revenue by selling data or advertising.  I thought it would be important for users to know that their information is protected and they wouldn't be inundated by advertisements for products or other services that may or may not be reputable.  Even when I look at competitors who claim to offer a solution to caregivers, I quickly see that they are mining data right from the initial attempt to register an account.  This turns me off immediately and I assume my customers would have the same reaction but, maybe not. Facebook still states on their registration page "it's free and always will be."  There are rumors that may change, what do you think? Would you rather pay for an application with cash or are you willing to roll the dice with your personal information and be advertised to? …see more