I like the concept of supporting artists on the web through "patrons" but I don't think it is a business model, for several reasons.
First, it doesn't really solve the problem. Creativity is not thriving because artists must take all the risk. Creating content on the "hope" that a patron will support doesn't solve that problem. The artist is consciously or sub-consciously creating art to attract patrons.
Don't get me wrong. I'm all for more consumer-oriented experiences.
But patrons are less like consumers than they are like lobbyists. They have a point of view and they will support art that communicates their message. I don't blame anyone for having a point of view. We all have one.
The problem is when a minority has "the floor," the "majority" is not served. Potentially true in a "patrons" market.
Many argue that's why free is important. But I think history suggests that a "free for all" has just as much potential to lose the majority's interest. Because in a "free for all" the loudest, most passionate voice dominates. They have extreme opinions and don't care what anyone else thinks. As with CB Radios, where communication was also a "free for all," the "majority" participated until "extreme" communicators took the civility out of the socializing.
As today's social network experiences offend the "majority" more and more (e.g., activists infiltrating facebook to galvanize support for their position by ridiculing someone on their own personal page) - demand for more civilized, controlled socializing will be high enough to command a premium price. In other words, free social networks have convinced us that we want to socialize with people we don't even know on-line. The next big idea will deliver solutions that protect the majority. For example, post CB Radio, people were convinced they needed mobile communication and were willing to pay a premium for cellphones that offered private conversations - even if the reception was not as reliable as CB Radios.
Instead of starting with a
transaction system. Let's start by developing superior entertainment
and information brands that facilitate a civilized social experience.
I happen to believe "live" is the gold standard to guide innovation.
Then almost all types of transactions will be relevant - from
micropayments to satisfy curiosity, subscriptions to stay connected
through updates, memberships to be a part of the community. The system should work both ways - rewarding quality content as well as quality participation. Patronage is a way to reward the most popular artists in each community.
