Adobe wanted to implement cloud-based services like Adobe fonts, Publish Online, CC Sync, CC Libraries, plus many extra features in Adobe's mobile apps. This is not possible with tools you simply buy/license.

The aspect of users being able to get the most recent version any time they want it or need it, is i.m.h.o. the biggest advantage of them all. New and useful features are much quicker picked up by most users. As an independent professional trainer in Adobe software, I notice users are more willing and much better at keeping up with new features, new media, and technology trends. I'm glad Micha≈Ç Rószkiewicz mentioned this as well as an important benefit.

And brand new applications (like XD and Dimension) don't need to 'sell' themselves – they're available to every user, immediately !

All in all, ± € 600 per year for all the tools and services you'll ever need from a company like Adobe, is not a bad deal. But when you're just doing print media (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) then you might as well just stick with Adobe CS (5 or 6) or choose a different developer.

So in good-old print media, Adobe is still very popular – true.
But I'm seeing users getting their hands on numerous other tools, not being afraid to leave the Adobe trail, for the exact reason of being able to buy a perpetual license. Pixelmator is an awarded photo imaging tool, Affinity is really getting stronger in all three disciplines, Canva is gaining grounds in layout...

In other (newer) areas where visualisations are needed, like social media, user experience design, sheer imaging, Adobe is just one player among many other cheap or even free tools. WhatsApp and Instagram are pretty good at offering imaging features, capable of doing stuff which is even pretty difficult Photoshop ! In CAD and 3D, many auxiliary tools are available to designers, as an alternative to Adobe's key applications.

So standards are not set in stone for eternity. The world changes, even (or especially) after decades. Just wait and see, and choose the road you prefer. Companies like Adobe also make their choices...


Oorspronkelijk geplaatst op Quora: Why won't Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and many other softwares be able to be bought anymore?"