OT- Selling Software Rant, "can i try before i buy" aka get it for free? Options

[JB 914]

RANT ON

Ok this has been bothering me for a long time. Why is it that people expect to get software for free? a "trial version" that they attempt to use forever?

I work for myself and develop medical practice management software. I feel i have a good niche solution. It's not for every doctor, but, it works as advertised, it's affordable and customizable.

If i go to a doctor i can't ask "Gee doc, tell you what. i'm just not sure how i'm going to feel about your consult. Why don't you give me a "trial consult" at no charge. I'll pester you with phone calls and emails over the next two weeks about your treatment/recommendations. If i like you, i'll make sure to tell all my friends" (IMG:style_emoticons/default/blink.gif)

there is a expectation in society that software is "free"

I'd be willing to bet that i have 2 times as many actual users vs. paid users. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/mad.gif)

I've done everything i can to protect the software without making it a total PITA to use/install.

Unfortunately some of my software is "add in" to existing software. Which leaves me (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sheeplove.gif) for users that want a 5 finger discount. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/mad.gif)

My experience is when a user asks for a "trial" they are simply asking for "free"

Users that say "If i like it, i'll tell all my friends". Translation: I don't want to pay.

Trial versions turn into "trial questions" and "trial customization"

RANT OFF

[JB 914]

I'm not really looking for ways to help sell it.

I'm just wondering why it's acceptable to expect a software vendor to give his/her products/services away for free. Also, why is it acceptable to steal the software.