entrytier

Entrytier, sometimes written as entry tier, refers to the lowest tier in a tiered structure used by products, services, and programs. The term is generic rather than a formal standard, and it is applied across industries to denote the most basic or introductory option offered to customers or members.

In practice, entrytier options provide essential functionality or access with limitations compared to higher tiers. They are designed to minimize barrier to entry, often priced affordably or offered for free with optional paid upgrades. Features may include capped usage, restricted customization, limited support, or reduced performance.

The strategy supports onboarding and upselling, creating a funnel toward mid and premium tiers. Depending on the brand, an entrytier may be marketed as Starter, Basic, Essentials, or similar labels, while some organizations use entrytier as a standardized descriptor in internal documents.

Industries include software as a service, cloud computing, digital media subscriptions, and hardware product lines where tiered access is common. In software, entrytier plans might not include advanced analytics, automation, or API access, whereas higher tiers unlock these capabilities.

Critics say that overly narrow entrytier options can frustrate users who outgrow them or lead to feature drift between tiers. Proponents argue it lowers the barrier to trial and helps convert occasional users into paying customers.

See also: tiered pricing, freemium models, basic plan, product ladder.