Evernote changes: End of the line for some users

For a long time cloud-based note-taking app Evernote was a key part of many people’s work productivity.

Somewhere along the way it lost the plot. It was no longer essential. Alternatives emerged which did the same or a similar job. Sometimes the new options did things better.

Then Evernote stopped being any part of work productivity for many one-time fans. In my case, I realised one day I wasn’t using it anymore.

Although there are still hold-outs who swear by Evernote. There isn’t the buzz.

Now fresh changes are on the way that are likely to see a number of hold-outs give up on the software. Basic users are now limited to using the software on just two devices. The premium subscription price jumps from US$45 to $70 a year.

That’s a lot of money for a note-taking application. Sure, Evernote Premium does more than notes. Yet it doesn’t feel like good value.

To put the price in context, Evernote Premium is US$10 a year more than a basic Microsoft Office 365 Personal subscription.

The subscription software model only works so long as customers feel they are getting value and will continue to do so. Pressuring users from the free model and increasing prices might seem like a smart idea in the boardroom. In the real world it’s like hitting the self-destruct button.