⬡ Business Model
Business Model is a Discovery-phase founder capability in the SKILLOS registry (category: original). Cross-references: 4 frameworks, 4 key metrics, 4 templates, 2 case studies, 3 mastery signals. Substrate applicability: 197 countries × 60 verticals × 99 SKILLOS sectors.
🔧 Frameworks
- 55 Business Model Patterns (St. Gallen)
- April Dunford Positioning Method
- LTV / CAC / Payback Calculator
- Pricing Psychology Ladder
📊 Key Metrics
- LTV:CAC ratio ≥ 3:1
- Payback period ≤ 18 months
- Gross margin by segment
- Revenue concentration risk (<20% in single customer)
📋 Templates
- Revenue model canvas
- Unit economics spreadsheet
- Competitive positioning map
- Pricing strategy matrix
💡 Case Studies
Freemium-to-paid conversion held at ~26% for a decade — proof that a well-calibrated free tier is a sales funnel, not a cost centre
Usage-based pricing with a generous free tier drove 265,000 business customers paying >$1K/year within three years of GA
April Dunford's sequence: map alternatives → identify your unique capabilities → connect to value → define best-fit customers. Positioning is not your tagline; it's a strategic decision.
🎯 You've mastered this when…
- Customers pay before product is built
- Willingness-to-pay interview reveals >10x budget vs. incumbents
- Natural upsell path to 2nd revenue stream
Related skills in the Discovery phase
Frequently asked about Business Model
What phase of the founder journey does Business Model belong to?
It is a Discovery-phase skill in the SKILLOS registry. The seven phases are Foundation, Discovery, Capital, Build, Growth, Revenue, and Scale.
What are the most useful frameworks for Business Model?
The four canonical frameworks are: 55 Business Model Patterns (St. Gallen); April Dunford Positioning Method; LTV / CAC / Payback Calculator; Pricing Psychology Ladder.
How do I know when I have mastered Business Model?
Mastery signals include: Customers pay before product is built; Willingness-to-pay interview reveals >10x budget vs. incumbents; Natural upsell path to 2nd revenue stream.
Which sectors does this skill apply to?
All 99 SKILLOS sectors — from AI & Machine Learning to Emerging Consumer Technology. The skill applies across every vertical in AJG's substrate of 197 countries and 60 commerce verticals.