Freemium
Origin: Chris Anderson
The Biological Bridge
This business construct is human-invented, but the outcome it's trying to achieve has deep biological roots.
The Full Picture
Freemium—free basic service, paid premium features—mirrors two-tier resource strategies in nature. Cleaner wrasse fish offer free parasite removal to all reef fish (customer acquisition), but provide premium service (longer, more thorough cleaning) to repeat customers who signal value through specific poses and return visits. Fig trees provide free shelter to all insects but reserve premium pollination services for fig wasps that demonstrate commitment by laying eggs. The free tier attracts volume and builds network effects; the premium tier captures value from those who derive most benefit. Nature monetizes the power users while keeping the funnel wide.