Business Model Patterns
Learn proven patterns used by successful companies
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Section 4 of 5Why Patterns Matter
You don't have to reinvent the wheel. Successful business models follow recognizable patterns that have been proven across industries. Understanding these patterns helps you design, analyze, and innovate your own business model.
The key insight: Patterns are not templates to copy blindly, but frameworks to adapt. The best companies often combine multiple patterns.
🎨 Business Model Patterns
Freemium
Free basic tier with premium paid features
Key Canvas Blocks
Mass market + Power users
Free access + Premium features
Freemium conversion (typically 2-5%)
High CAC offset by viral growth
✓ Pros
- • Viral growth potential
- • Low barrier to entry
- • Large user base
✗ Cons
- • Low conversion rates
- • Free users can be costly
- • Feature gating is tricky
🎯 Pattern Matcher
Match each business scenario to its pattern:
A printer company sells printers at cost but charges high margins on ink
LinkedIn offers free profiles but charges for Premium features
DoorDash connects restaurants with hungry customers
Key Takeaways
- •Common patterns include Freemium, Marketplace, Subscription, Razor & Blade, and Platform.
- •Each pattern has trade-offs - understand pros and cons before adopting.
- •Many successful companies combine multiple patterns for competitive advantage.