Software Cost Tracking via Embedded Identifiers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Determining the accurate monetary cost of providing software as a service (SaaS) in cloud environments is challenging due to the inability to effectively measure and charge for software engineering investments, with current pricing models often relying on static metrics or hardware consumption, neglecting the dynamic complexity and resource usage.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that generate metadata associated with the cost of computer software portions, embedding identifiers to track usage, and calculating a total cost based on resource investment and complexity recognition, allowing for dynamic pricing that reflects the actual software development and hardware costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If static pricing models based on hardware consumption are used, then pricing simplicity is maintained, but accuracy in reflecting actual software engineering costs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the software into distinct portions or modules, each with its own embedded identifier. This segmentation allows for granular tracking of which specific software portions are executed during service requests, enabling precise cost allocation to different functional components rather than using a monolithic pricing model.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by embedding identifiers in software portions and then detecting which portions are executed during service requests. This creates a closed-loop measurement system where actual software usage data feeds back into the cost calculation, dynamically adjusting charges based on real execution patterns rather than static estimates.
2Measurement precision
If dynamic pricing based on analytics is implemented, then cost accuracy improves, but system complexity and implementation difficulty worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by embedding identifiers into software portions during the software development or deployment phase, before the service requests are processed. This upfront preparation simplifies subsequent tracking and cost calculation, as the identification infrastructure is already in place rather than needing to be built dynamically during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The embedded identifier acts as an intermediary element that bridges the software code and the cost tracking system. Rather than directly monitoring complex software execution states, the system uses these identifiers as mediators to simplify the detection and measurement process, making implementation more manageable.
3Quantity of substance
If software engineering costs are excluded from pricing, then hardware cost minimization is achieved, but overall profitability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting software into trackable portions with embedded identifiers, the system enables separate cost allocation for software engineering investments. Each executed portion can be associated with its development costs, allowing these previously excluded expenses to be captured and allocated accurately to generating services.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical accounting methods with an automated digital tracking system. Embedded identifiers and automated detection replace manual cost allocation processes, enabling precise tracking of software usage and associated engineering costs that would be impractical to track using conventional methods.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for use in a computer of generating a cost associated with performing a request for a service using computer software, the method comprising: generating metadata associated with the cost of a plurality of portions of the computer software, the metadata including an identifier associated with each of the plurality of portions of the computer software; embedding at least the identifier into each respective portion of the plurality of portions of the computer software; utilizing the embedded identifier to determine which of the plurality of portions of the computer software are used to perform the request; assigning, using the metadata, a cost to each of the one or more portions of the computer software determined to be used to perform the request; and calculating a total cost associated with usage of the computer software to perform the request.