If you’ve dabbled in graphic design, a name that may ring a bell is Canva. This design platform has made it possible for anyone to create high-quality designs, regardless of their level of experience or expertise. What’s even more impressive is that it’s essentially free to use. So how does Canva manage to offer its services for free? Let’s delve into the specifics.
Freemium Business Model
The secret behind Canva’s free accessibility lies in its business model, specifically, the freemium model. This model works by offering basic services for free, while charging a premium for advanced or special features. In the world of software, this is an extremely popular model and is used by many successful companies.
In the case of Canva, it provides an extensive range of features for free, which includes access to a vast library of elements like images, shapes, fonts, and templates. However, some premium elements and features are locked behind a paywall. These features can be accessed through a paid subscription, known as Canva Pro.
What is Canva Pro?
Canva Pro is the paid subscription service that Canva offers. It provides users with access to premium features like millions of stock photos, a brand kit, custom templates, team functionalities, and much more. This subscription is not necessary for everyone; however, it can be beneficial for businesses or individuals who regularly need advanced design functionalities.
How Does Canva Make Money?
So, how does Canva support the cost of providing free services to millions of users? It comes down to the paying users. While a majority of Canva users utilize the free version, a substantial number of users opt for the Canva Pro subscription. The revenue generated from these subscriptions helps support the platform and keeps the free version running.
Besides the subscription fees, Canva also earns through partnerships with stock photo providers. When a user purchases a premium image from their library, Canva gets a commission.
Furthermore, Canva offers print-on-demand services where users can order their designs to be printed on various products. This service also contributes to the revenue Canva generates.
Conclusion
While Canva offers a plethora of features for free, it is the premium subscriptions, partnerships, and additional services that keep the platform financially sustainable. As a user, you get to benefit from a robust design tool without necessarily spending a dime. But if you want extra perks, Canva Pro is always available for a reasonable subscription fee.
Happy designing!
