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Software vs. Hardware Business Models

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 13:39:05 +0000

By: Phil Morettini

Much of my consulting practice centers on working with early stage software companies. But I have substantial hardware market experience in my background, and I do take on consulting assignments with hardware companies.

So what are the differences and similarities between successful software and hardware businesses?

CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS

One of the larger differences is that software companies generally require much lower capital to reach profitability and continued growth. This is primarily because of the lack of need to invest in expensive semiconductor development tools, semiconductor masks, manufacturing plants/equipment, manufacturing engineering personnel, unfinished goods inventory, higher cost of finished goods inventory, etc. So except for startups backed by substantial institutional capital, it’s much easier to startup software companies compared to their hardware counterparts.

MARGINS

Another important area where software companies have an advantage is in margins—both in the area of typical gross margins, as well as the potential for higher net margins. This is primarily due to the negligible cost-of-goods-sold for most software companies.As a result, it easier for software companies to get to profitability, and if a large market is found, sustain profitability. Remember, throughout this article I am talking “on average”. There are hardware businesses with excellent gross margins (dominant semiconductor companies come to mind) as well. But in general, this is an area where the advantage goes to software.

PRICING

The big difference here also is related to product cost. The major difference comes down to product cost, which in the long run creates a floor for anyone who would actually like to make a profit. While optimal pricing of hardware or software should be based upon a value-based approach—with market segmentation as the key However, I rarely find this to be the case in my consulting practice—whether the company markets a software or hardware product.

In the hardware business, you tend to see a lot of simple pricing models that are cost-based. For software businesses, the negligible product cost can be the other end of the proverbial double-edge sward when it comes to pricing. In a competitive market, you may see competitors in software markets literally “give away” the initial product, and rely on the upgrade stream to make a profit downstream. This can strain the profitability of the entire segment, and in severe circumstances, can suck all the profit from the market. You see this scenario most often started by weaker competitors, or in markets where switching costs are high. While hardware pricing can be even more competitive generally, it is less likely for a weaker competitor in a hardware market to introduce a “zero-margin” program. This is because it is often tougher to hang onto a customer in the second generation (if the market has commoditized), and the market leader often has a gross margin advantage—making it an ill advised maneuver other than as an attention-getting, short-term promotion.

DISTRIBUTION

The advent of the Internet has created a major difference in distribution between software and hardware companies, where there was very little difference in the past. It has made direct distribution much more practical for small software companies, in markets where a simple download is practical. For those companies which aren’t direct-only, distribution is similar for hardware and software companies. Traditional distribution through third parties tends to be very similar, although higher inventory costs are still a burden that hardware companies need to manage more closely, both for in-house finished goods and those held by the channel.

DEFENSIBLE STRATEGIC ADVANTAGE

This is an area in which software and hardware markets have both similarities and large differences. Both hardware and software companies value patents as a form of providing a sustainable competitive advantage. But in my opinion, the inherent malleability of software makes patent protection less useful in software than in hardware. It is easier to “find another way” of accomplishing the same end result when you are dealing strictly in software code. It’s also easier to segment in software markets, creating a targeted, niche version of a software product for a specific segment, nipping at a market leader without drawing their fire. It’s much harder for a small hardware company to differentiate itself this way. On the other hand, the market leader that establishes itself and creates a large volume business, creates the important competitive advantages—cost efficiencies and brand recognition are the huge, defensible advantages. So I believe this point comes down to scale—in software markets, it’s easier for a small competitor to overcome the scale of larger competitors, and develop a niche strategic advantage. While in hardware, the large competitors can use scale to create the ultimate competitive advantage.

LOCALIZATION REQUIREMENTS

This is an area in which hardware companies normally have an advantage. They usually have simpler user interfaces, and sometimes utilize symbols extensively in their interfaces, greatly reducing translation requirements into local languages. Hardware companies do have to deal with some physical differences in standards, such as electrical—but these have stabilized over time, and are often handled in the standard product.

Conversely, software user interfaces are usually language intensive and more complex, with thicker user manuals. This requires software companies to live with higher localization costs and longer lead times to market worldwide. The exception to this is complex software sold to highly technical users, where English is often used as the standard language.

POTENTIAL FOR DOMINANCE

I’m going by mostly by empirical evidence here. It seems that there have been a lot more hardware companies who have dominated there respective businesses, for a longer period of time than in software. For every Microsoft (and there’s really only one of those!) it seems there are many more examples like Intel, Cisco, IBM, HP, Dell, etc. Hardware markets tend to commoditize more easily, but with standardization on a couple of leading brands. It’s hard to make money in the long run in hardware unless you are one of the top two or three players. Large hardware markets are also relatively larger in revenue than large software markets, allowing market leaders to more fully utilize their profit and cost advantages over competitors, by spreading marketing costs over large product volumes. So if you’re looking to build a truly dominant company, the odds are greater in hardware—although you probably are still better off heading to Las Vegas, and putting your life savings on roulette red!

There are many more ways to contrast and compare hardware and software companies, but I will end it here. What other points would you add?

Phil Morettini is President of PJM Consulting, Management Consultants to Tech Companies PJM provides assistance in Management, Product Marketing and Biz Dev. More Articles at Tech Management Blog . Contact Phil at Software Management Consulting

Changing Hardware for a Quick Home Makeover

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 12:58:02 +0000

By: My Dream Home Registry

There are many different ways to spruce up your home little by little. Whether you are interested in fixing up the exterior of the home or the interior, there are ways to go about doing so which are cost effective and easy to complete. If you are eager to give your home a quick makeover on the inside one way to do so is to change the hardware on various fixtures throughout the home. Items such as door fixtures and plumbing fixtures can be changed and this will bring about an entirely new look to the room.

Reasons to Change Hardware in Various Rooms of the Home

There are a few reasons why you may wish to change the hardware on fixtures within your home. First, changing the hardware on items such as doors and plumbing fixtures will add a more modern look to the home. This is especially true for those who have outdated fixtures and have not changed the hardware since they moved in. Another reason to change the hardware in the home is that the current items may be worn out and changing the hardware is a quick way to make the rooms look fresh and new. Also, changing the hardware on doors, cabinets and plumbing fixtures will make a room match better, especially if the current hardware is mismatched in some way.

Choosing New Hardware for Items in Your Home

Prior to heading to the store to buy new knobs, handles and plumbing fixtures for the rooms in the home, determine what type of look you are striving for. Consider the room in which the hardware will be replaced and note the furnishings within the room. You want to choose hardware which not only matches the other fixtures in the room but also all of the furnishings that are in place within the room.

You also want to figure out what style of room you are searching for when it comes to giving the room a quick makeover. Determine if your taste is more along the lines of a contemporary look or you wish to exude a look of the past. You will be able to find hardware in various styles and there is certain to be a style to suit your individual tastes.

Determining What New Hardware Pieces are Essential

If you are on a tight budget and wish to replace hardware pieces within the home, there are a few ways to determine which ones are essential. The first thing you should do is to look around the home in the different rooms and see which rooms contain hardware that are in complete disrepair, whether it be plumbing fixtures, doorknobs or cabinet handles. It is always best to start with the items that need to be replaced and then move on to those which you would like to replace in order to give the home a quick makeover.

Once you have replaced the hardware on the necessary furniture or fixture items, then if there is money remaining in your budget you can move on to those items which could use a new look. Try replacing hardware a complete room at a time so that all of the new hardware pieces will match within the room. This mini home makeover will work best if your finished product is a room with a completely new look and all of the prior hardware pieces which used to be in place are now long gone.

Obtaining a Good Deal on Hardware Items

There are a few places you can shop for your new hardware pieces. Home improvement stores, general product stores and online retailers are the best places to start your search. If you are looking for a large number of items such as knobs and handles, ask the retailer if they offer bulk discounts. If you are searching for plumbing fixtures in order to give your bathroom or kitchen a new look, try to find quality items on sale as this will be gentler on your wallet than if you simply purchased the items for full price.

Why not register for your new home fixtures and hardware? Check out www.MyDreamHomeRegistry.com, the gift registry for everything home.

Articles are sponsored by My Dream Home Registry and its community All Things Interior (www.allthingsinterior.com). We have a host of resources available for individuals looking for home design and remodel information.

Attractive sinks and faucets from Beeson Direct

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 12:24:48 +0000

By: Harvey Gais

Hardware and plumbing products are an important part of your home and you depend on them to function properly. Beeson Direct provides the best quality plumbing and hardware products for every type bathroom or kitchen in a variety of decorative styles. Our line of bathroom fixtures includes bathroom faucet fixtures, wall shower systems, wall mounted bathroom fixtures and attractive sinks in all kinds of materials including glass sinks, ceramic sinks, marble sinks, cast iron kitchen sinks and more.

Our line of kitchen sinks offer you more options in the way of function and design than you will find anywhere else. Find the perfect sink for your kitchen that will suit your personal style as well as your practical needs. Beeson Direct carries a wider range of attractive styles, textures, designs, colors, sizes and materials than any other company on the market.

Many sink manufacturers provide only one or two basic models of sinks in a few different materials which limits your options in terms of functionality and originality. What separates Beeson Direct from these companies is their collection of unique designs that give you more options than ever in creating the perfect new look for your kitchen or bathroom. Drop in sinks have always popular and now more options than ever for you to choose from. We also provide wall mount bathroom sinks and kitchen sinks all of which have a neat and clean appearance.

Under mount sinks have become trendy and fit nicely with special materials like concrete and granite. There are variety of under mount sinks available like non-connecting double sinks which provide a more modern look, sinks with optional custom drain grids that are useful for cleaning vegetables and fruits. These sinks are popular with chefs because of their deep utensil wells and wooden knife rack. These sinks are hygienic with a smooth surface that is dirt resistant and difficult to scratch.

Once you have found the perfect sink, it is time to look at our collection of beautiful faucets. Beeson Direct provides a variety of kitchen sink faucets in different styles to compliment your new sink. Among the styles of faucet available are single hole, pot fillers, pull outs, bar and pillar type, 3 and 4 holes and more. Find the right faucet to complete your sink and give your kitchen or bathroom the new look you’ve been imagining for a price you can afford with the help of Beeson Direct.

If you want to get the best bathroom faucet fixtures, then look for articles by Harvey Gais.He provides expert information to help you pick out the perfect bathroom tub fixtures, bathroom sink fixtures and shower systems.

Antique Georgian Roped Push Plates and Pull Plate Hardware for Swing Doors

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:59:26 +0000

By: Kohn Coleman

Georgian Roped Push and Pull Plates are a wonderful way to add beautiful detail and increase the durability of the swing doors in your home of business. Push plates were originally used to protect the swing door between the kitchen and dining room in larger Victorian homes. Since meals were carried into the room in a series of courses doors would become easily scratched or gouged, so a metal plate was attached to the door to avoid this damage over time. Push plates can be very simple in design or very ornate.

Georgian Roped Push and Pull Plates are a timeless and welcome addition to any home. The classic “roped” design adds traditional detail to your door. It is a style that exemplifies simplicity and beauty. Push plates are typically constructed out of brass, iron, or even glass and are available in a variety of finishes including Polished Brass, Antique Brass, Polished Chrome, Satin Nickel and Oil Rubbed Bronze.

Georgian roped push and pull plates are produced today – allowing you to incorporate their patterns into your home. The traditional roped design is also available in kitchen hardware, doorknob sets, lighting and other home hardware which allows you to easily create a common theme in every room. These elegant plates can transform a plain swing door into a beautiful showpiece. You can ask an interior designer or other decorating experts for assistance or look to decorating magazines for additional help. By using the Georgian roped theme you can use different shapes thorough the house – you need not use the same style on every door, cabinet or furniture.

Georgian Roped Push and Pull plates are readily available online as well as in many home decorating catalogs. Search for solid brass construction to ensure durability over time. When you work with the Georgian roped theme you can be sure that different combinations will work well together and tie together nicely in your home. The Georgian Roped Push and Pull Plates can be found online through LookInTheAttic & Company and they also offer free design assistance and help.

Kohn Coleman born in Michigan – received his Ph.D. from Iowa State University in 2000 – currently leads several online companies and ventures.

What Hardware is Needed For a Network?

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 08:47:19 +0000

By: Derek Rogers

As you’re probably already aware there is more than one type of network that can be created; but if it is a network to a computer that you want to install and need to know what special hardware you need, read on.

Firstly, if you want to get a wireless network hooked up you will need a wireless network card and a router. If you have internet access at the moment, the same cable that you currently use to feed the Internet through your computer will go into the router, and then there is another cable that will come from the router and connect to the Internet.

The router you have, should have come with software that you will need to install. The process of creating a network is not as difficult as it may seem to be; as long as you have an idea of what you are doing you shouldn’t have a problem. Once it is set up you should create a password that will only allow you and people you tell to access the wireless internet.

If it is just a simple kind of network between two computers that you are trying to make, the only thing you will need here is an Ethernet cord. However, remember that for this connection you will only be able to connect two computers and no more than that. If you would like to connect more than two computers, what you would need is an Ethernet hub as well as many Ethernet cords, as many cords as the amount of computers you are connecting. Make sure that each computer has its own cord and they are all connected to the hub, then there should be no other problems.

If you’re looking to create a network that is sharing a high speed internet connection, then you will need to connect a modem to the router via the Ethernet, then the Ethernet cords must be used to connect different computers all to the same router. However, if the computers you are using are able to support Wi-Fi then you will be able to use a wireless router, which many people find to be much better than anything else. A wireless router is often preferred because it doesn’t have you tied up at your desk. It allows you to be anywhere at home, be it in the bar area, lounge or bathroom, and from there you can use your high speed connection to surf the net from where you are.

So the answer to the question would be that it would depend on what network it is you are trying to create in order to determine what type of hardware you will need. Creating networks may not always be an easy task for someone if they don’t know what they are doing, but if you have some experience with setting up routers and networks then you shouldn’t have a problem. Just remember that it can get quite technical, so be prepared to have a hard time if you don’t understand the principles, there is plenty of advice on hand though should you need it and most hardware is supplied with instructions.

Derek Rogers is a freelance writer who writes for a number of UK businesses. For information about Networks, he recommends Prodec Networks, a leading provider of Networking Hardware.

The Real Hardware Secrets of Faster Computers

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 08:14:35 +0000

By: Pete Flack

This article deals with personal computers ones for home or small business use. Vendors or people that sell you computers will try to convince you that CPU (microprocessor) speed or model. Play the most important part in determining a computers speed this is false the most important is RAM size. Providing the same operating system e.g. Windows XP is the same.

People underestimate the importance of ram, because they do not know how it works in the computer. Imagine you are cooking in your kitchen and the meal is your computer output. The kitchen is your computer system the kitchen cabinets and the refrigerator are your hard drive the cook or you is the CPU. The Kitchen table is the ram. The oven and the stove are your output devices e.g… Printer, audio and display. The larger your kitchen table the faster and more complex of a meal you can complete with your kitchen. As is the larger the ram is the faster your computer is.

People who play video games should avoid computers with onboard video. Because computer games need video ram. Recommend at least 128 megabyte video card and you should be able to play most games. The computer can do most of its for playing games in the video card, hence a faster video card means faster computing. Here again microprocessor speed will not increase your video game performance nearly as much as a better video card.

Hard drives there are three types Parallel, Sata and SCSI. SCSI also known as Skuzzy is the fastest but also is very expensive. Most computer use parallel it is the most common type and the slowest. The new type Sata or serial hard drive is quicker than parallel, but not as expensive as skuzzy. If you do allot of work with data make sure your computer has a serial hard drive. Remember you need a mother board that supports serial hard drive the older ones do not.

In conclusion don’t spend money on a quicker microprocessor for a faster computer.

Peter Flack alias PE7E is the web master
of PE7E.com has been in the electronics computer field
for over twenty five years resides in Long Island NY. offers one on one
training, repairs, upgrades and also sells on Ebay and Amazon.

Watching Satellite Tv On Pc – No Hardware To Install!

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 08:03:43 +0000

By: Sam Peterson

Would you like to start watching satellite tv on pc as soon as today? You can forget about most of the things that had concerned you about watching satellite TV on your PC. One benefit with watching cable TV on your PC is that all you need is to pay a one-time fee which is a lot better than paying monthly subscriptions.

The price of the satellite tv on pc software that allows you to start watching satellite tv on pc is usually less than the cost of the typical monthly subscription that you are currently paying right now on your digital/cable program. Obviously paying a one-time fee is much better than having to pay monthly subscriptions month after month. Over the course of a year you can easily see how you can easily save at as much as $600 on your cable bill by not having to deal with recurring monthly subscriptions. Within minutes of installation of the TV to PC software you can start enjoying thousands of channels free of cost.

Even though it might take a few minutes to install the TV to PC software, the installation process is a breeze because the entire process is given to you in a step by step manual. Another major benefit is that there is no installation fees or any extra equipment needed to install the TV to PC software. After instantly downloading the software you will receive directions that are very easy to follow.

You can easily install your TV to PC software that allows to begin watching satellite tv on pc on more than one computer. Because of the ease of installation you do not need any specialized company to help you install it. You do not even need to be a computer expert in order to install your TV to PC software successfully.

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Crystal and Brass Coat Hooks – Antique and Vintage Hardware

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 07:06:53 +0000

By: Kohn Coleman

Glass and brass coat hooks are a fun and creative way to introduce new colors into your home and giving you more space in your closets. Although there is no one officially credited with “inventing” the coat hook these simple devices have been used in homes for centuries. Many houses were (and sometimes still are) built with limited closet space so hooks were installed into the walls near entryways for the residents and guests to hang their coats, scarves and hats. Although designs and materials have varied in popularity over time the basic function of the coat hook has remained the same.

Glass and brass coat hooks are a timeless addition to any entryway, bathroom or bedroom because of there beautiful patterns and classic design. The brass base provides durability and strength while the beautiful glass accent knobs introduce or enhance the colors of your decorating style. Popular colors include Ruby Red, Cobalt Blue, Emerald Green, Crystal Clear, Depression Pink, Light Green, Light Blue, Milk Glass, Amber and Amethyst. The brass base is available in Polished Brass, Antique Brass and Pewter.

Coat hooks are easy to install and convenient to use. These beautiful hooks can be used in entryways, bedrooms, bathrooms and even kitchens. The traditional design and hint of color provides a great opportunity to enhance previous decorating styles and introduce new patterns into your home. Remember to replace other older and worn hardware (such as doorknob sets, cabinet knobs and pulls or lighting) with brass hardware to further tie your new look together. Consult home decorating catalogs or with an interior designer for additional help and suggestions to further coordinate your theme.

These coat hooks are readily available online and in many home decorating catalogs. Look for solid brass and glass construction and be sure to ask questions. Coat hooks are a beautiful addition to any room and can be tied together nicely with other existing or new home hardware. These coat hooks are available online through LookInTheAttic & Company and they offer free design assistance and help.

Kohn Coleman born in Michigan – received his Ph.D. from Iowa State University in 2000 – currently leads several online companies and ventures.

Watching Tv On The Pc – No Hardware To Install

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 05:16:27 +0000

By: S. Pearson

Are you aware of the many advantages of watching tv on the pc?

There are a lot of benefits from the software that allows you to start watching tv on the pc. You have the ability to watch thousands of channels instantly. With the software that allows you start watching tv on the pc you will have access to over 3500 HD channels directly.

There is no need to pay for an any monthly fees whatsoever. You will be instantly notified when new channels are available on your software. This is a great benefit when compared to normal cable services. Your basic cable service is probably charge you extra and more than likely also trying to hook you into a contract when you want more channels.

Also the installation process is a breeze with the software that allows you to start watching TV on the PC. Because the software is instantly down-loadable there is no need to pay for shipping fees whatsoever. The entire installation process takes up to five minutes as well. And there is customer service help available if you happen to run into problems when trying to install the software.

You don’t have to be a computer techie just to be able to install the software that allows you to start watching TV on the PC. This is a great advantage for those that are not comfortable with the normal installation process of installing software is on their computers. And the price for the software is usually about $49. It’s only a one-time fee that gives you lifetime access to the software.

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Hardware Store Franchises – True Value and Ace Hardware

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 04:46:51 +0000

By: Bill Henthorn

Almost every household in the country will visit a hardware store at least one a year. This potential for business is one of the reasons that a hardware store has always been one of the more popular businesses that an owner can start or buy.

The generic hardware store exists in the mind’s eye as a retail store that a person can go to and buy just the right nut and bolt or the odd sized screw. This mythical store is run by knowledgeable people who can answer almost anything that has to do with home repair. This is what the public has come to expect when visiting a hardware store. Some chain store outlets have gotten away from the help side of hardware stores and just sale products off the shelf. Getting answers to questions in these stores is not what the hardware store visit is about. The great help of the old type hardware store is missing. Except in those stores that are run the old fashion way and continue to prosper as their customers are repeat customers and would not think about going somewhere else to shop. Two franchises that carry on this tradition are True Value and Ace Hardware associated stores.

True Value stores

True Value is the third largest co-op in the hardware business. True Value is a cooperative that allows the store owner who is a member to buy merchandise at reduced prices since this group can make large wholesale purchases. The store owners can also enjoy the advantage of group advertising buys. Being able to buy at the large volume prices makes the advantage a significant profit maker. Group advertising can also reduce the cost of getting customers into the store.

The average True Value store investment

The average investment in a True Value store works out to about $35 a square foot for inventory. The fixtures or equipment will come in at about $8 a square foot. The start up cost can vary by area of the country, but the average is about $4 a square foot. The additional cost to become a True Value store can be found by contacting True Value corporate.

Ace Hardware stores

Ace Hardware is the largest hardware co-op Like True Value it offers members the capability to buy merchandise through the co-op at reduced prices and thereby make more profit from sales. They also offer the advantage of group advertising which reduces the cost of getting customers through the doors.

Group buying of the co-op saves all of the member’s money as the co-op gets better pricing due to large volume buying. This savings is then passed on to the members and allows them to make more money.

Ace Hardware Investment Structure

The Ace membership application is about $5000 Initial stock ownership is another $5000. Liquid capital needed to start a store is $250,000 with a loan from Ace of an additional amount of $390,000 to $740,000, which depends on the store size. The total investment is between $650,000 and one million dollars.Land and building cost are not included in this pricing.

The Ace investment numbers are based on a 12,000 square foot store. Dollar amounts are for fixtures, inventory, office equipment, computer system and operating costs.

Other factors that will help the owner

Both of these hardware operations offer the owner training and seminars, which are designed to help the store grow. Suggestions for operating the store more efficiently can be taken in and used to good effect. Special purchases that include a targeted advertising campaign will attract customers into the store. The staff’s helpful attitude will impress the customers and insure they will come again.

Buying a local hardware store

Local stores that are affiliated or not do come to market every now and then for purchase. The owner may be willing to deal very favorably in order to make the sale. Contact a business broker or look up businesses that are for sale listed on the Internet. A good business broker may be wise to contact, as these pros are very good sources of current information. If an existing business is for sale, the price may be excellent due to the store being established. A store with cash flow is always a business to be considered. Customer habits are in the favor of the new owner as long as the service stays the same or gets better. If you are going to make some significant changes, make sure they are well thought out before putting them into practice. If there is a strong benefit to the customers, they will probably be met with enthusiasm.

An old owner may be willing to help with the financing of the business. In most cases the price of the business will increase some and will have to be negotiated as part of the sales contract. The other way to get the needed money is to see if a business lender would be willing to give you the needed loan. Many of these money lenders are easily found on the Internet.

Conclusions

The hardware business is one business that has a variety to customers that need what the store is offering. Every person of age is a possible customer. This large potential customer base is what will make a new hardware store quickly grow and in the right location become profitable. . As with all retail stores location is important. Name recognition is also very helpful which is why the two co-ops have so many members. Customers will come to a store with a familiar name.

Friendly, helpful and knowledgeable staff is critical if you want to stand out from the box stores. Their pricing will be competitive to yours, so you have to beat them by having better help. If you try to compete on price alone, you will be fighting a losing battle. Store hours are also important in this business. Early openings are almost a necessity of the business. People like to get up and get started on projects.

Bill Henthorn formerly was principal broker and owner of a resort / commercial real estate brokerage in Honolulu which specialized in representing sellers in transactions up to $50MM.He currently serves as the marketing director of http://www.acquireo.com