# Sustainability

## Revenue generation <a href="#membership-and-voting" id="membership-and-voting"></a>

Products produced at a SOFT org can have the following revenue model(s). The developer(s) can choose one or both depending on the market.

1. Lifetime license sale + continued maintenance subscription
2. Subscription for the services provided.

> As described in standard by laws, revenue should never be generated in any other means like selling user data, etc

## Non traditional exit

The SOFT organization commits to the triple bottom line approach—prioritizing planet, people, and prosperity equally. To maintain integrity in this commitment, products developed under SOFT will never be transferred to non-SOFT entities via acquisitions or offered through conventional IPOs that prioritize financial returns over environmental and social responsibility. This decision is rooted in the belief that such actions could undermine the organization's commitment to sustainability and its mission to create positive social and environmental impact. By keeping the products within the SOFT ecosystem, the organization can ensure that they remain aligned with its values and principles.

A product can however be acquired by another SOFT organization given that the buying organization incorporates *definable bylaws* requested by the selling organization, at the scope of the product being sold. A product produced at SOFT org can optionally chose to go public on any sustainability-centric stock exchanges.

For understanding financial incentives for founders, backers and contributors - see [Incentives](/soft/how-it-works/incentives.md)

## Life cycle thinking

To foster efficient use of natural resources, energy, and minimize waste, the SOFT org should adopt a life cycle thinking approach in its decision-making process. This approach involves considering the entire life cycle of a product or service, from its conception and design to its disposal or end-of-life, and assessing its environmental impact at each stage. By doing so, the organization can identify opportunities to reduce waste, improve resource efficiency, and minimize the environmental impact of its products and services. The organization should engage with its stakeholders, including core members, consumers, and backers, to promote sustainable practices and raise awareness about the importance of triple bottom line.


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