Why we're open about our prices
After more than 25 years of free use, simple system has introduced a pricing model. Why? Because digitalisation doesn't work without investment - and because many customers expected exactly that. In this interview, our VP Growth & Sales Operations, Fabian von Kleinsorgen, talks about the reasons for the change in strategy, internal discussions , and why price transparency is not a risk, but a sign of trust.
1. Why have we deliberately opted for price transparency while other competitors do not publish their prices?
Because we are convinced: If you want to sell digital processes, you have to be transparent yourself. Procurement is complex enough - clear information and a comprehensible price structure help. Anything else unnecessarily prolongs decision-making processes.
2. What strategic values do we associate with this openness?
Honesty, reliability, fairness and equality. We want customers to be able to rely on us - even when it comes to price. Hidden costs, vague offer logic or endless queries do not fit in with a modern, digital platform.
3. Were there internal discussions or critical voices regarding the publication of the price structure?
Yes, there were - and that is understandable. After more than 25 years of free use, the decision to monetise was not an easy one. There was a lot of discussion internally: Is now the right time? How do we explain this to existing customers who have previously used the system without paying license fees? And what does this mean for our positioning on the market?
At the same time, it was clear that the old system had reached its technological limits - and with it our ability to deliver real added value. The features that characterise our platform today were simply not feasible on the old basis. In order to remain fit for the future - and to provide our customers with the tools that modern procurement needs - we had to rethink from the ground up. And that also means investing in quality, support and further development.
Our customers' reactions were mixed - but very differentiated. Many reacted with absolute understanding. Some had been waiting for precisely this step because they knew that digitalisation cannot be taken seriously without investing in the platform. Others - especially in procurement - found it difficult to accept the idea of paying for something that used to be free. That is human.
But this is exactly where transparency helps. Anyone who understands what they are paying for - and what specific benefits it brings - can make an informed decision. And that's why we put all our cards on the table.
4. How does this fit in with our corporate philosophy (digitalisation, fairness, customer focus)?
100 %. For us, digitalisation doesn't just mean automation, but also clarity. Our platform simplifies procurement, and clarity about costs is a central component of this.
Communicating prices clearly - a statement with attitude
5. What exactly does our price structure look like?
We offer clearly defined packages, depending on how intensively the platform is used. The structure is simple: Basic, Marketplace and Controlling each cost €99 per month. If you need an ERP connection, you pay a further €99, and an additional €49 for OCI Punchout or external ordering systems.
There are no hidden fees, no complicated graduated prices, no discounts that have to be "negotiated" first.
6. How do our models differ from those of our competitors?
While other providers calculate their prices on a case-by-case basis - depending on user numbers, annual volumes or system landscapes - we take a different approach: transparent packages, comprehensible scaling, clear logic and open communication.
7. What are the clear advantages for the customer?
Planning security, comparability and: Trust. Nobody wants to renegotiate or wait for a PDF quote to know whether a platform is worthwhile. Our customers know where they stand from the very first moment.
8. how do customers react to open communication? Is there any feedback?
The feedback is very positive. Many customers tell us that it was precisely this openness in the early evaluation phase that made the difference. A clear price structure helps enormously, especially in corporations where decisions are made at many levels.
9. do we have examples where our transparency was decisive in closing the deal?
Yes - especially for customers with several parties involved in the decision-making process. If the purchasing department needs a figure but doesn't get a quote, this often ends in endless coordination. Our transparency shortens this process considerably.
10. do you think that price transparency is a real USP in our industry?
Absolutely. Precisely because hardly anyone does it. And because price transparency means more than just a number at a time when trust is becoming a currency. It's a statement.
11. how do you assess the risk of price benchmarking by competitors?
The risk exists. But we consciously accept it. Because we believe in the strength of our model - and that customer proximity is more important than fear of competition.
12. what message would you like to give potential new customers directly?
Anyone who uses our platform doesn't have to fear any nasty surprises. We are honest, direct and fair - not just in our pricing, but in everything we do.
13. what measures or updates can customers expect?
Our platform is not a static product. It is continuously being developed - not only with major features, but also with many small optimizations that make a difference in everyday life. This is precisely the claim behind the name "simple": a user experience that works intuitively, quickly and smoothly - even if the underlying processes are complex.
In addition, we are constantly investing in performance, usability and new functions that not only digitalize procurement, but really simplify it. The goal remains: a platform that delivers what its name promises.

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