AppSumo's Black Friday Deals (what we know so far) [2019]

Black Friday is an exciting time for digital entrepreneurs and software enthusiasts, especially those who are fans of lifetime deals (LTDs). AppSumo, a popular platform for software deals, has announced its Black Friday event for 2019, and it’s generating quite a buzz in the LTD community. In this article, we’ll dive deep into AppSumo’s Black Friday offerings, breaking down the deals, explaining the structure of the event, and providing insights into each product on offer. Whether you’re a seasoned AppSumo user or new to the world of LTDs, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the deals and make informed decisions about which products to add to your digital toolkit.

Intro [00:00]

Black Friday week is upon us, and for LTD (Lifetime Deal) enthusiasts, it’s the most anticipated time of the year. AppSumo, a leading platform for software deals, has launched its Black Friday event, offering a plethora of exciting deals for digital entrepreneurs and small business owners. In this section, we’ll provide an overview of AppSumo’s Black Friday week and what you can expect from this year’s offerings.

Key Points:

• Black Friday is a highly anticipated event for LTD enthusiasts.
• AppSumo is offering multiple deals during their Black Friday week.
• The event is structured in two parts, with more deals to be released later.
• This article will focus on the first wave of AppSumo’s Black Friday deals.
• Stay tuned for information about the second wave of deals coming soon.

Event Structure:

• AppSumo has released the first five out of ten deals for Black Friday.
• These initial deals are exclusively available to AppSumo Plus or Briefcase members.
• Plus and Briefcase members receive an additional 10% discount on purchases.
• The first wave of deals will be available until Thursday for Briefcase members only.
• On Thursday, November 28th at 11 pm Eastern Time, the deals will open to all users.
• Five additional deals will be released at this time, totaling ten Black Friday offers.

Exclusive Bonus for Plus and Briefcase Members:

• Members who spend more than $250 during the Black Friday event will receive a free $50 gift in AppSumo credits.
• The $250 threshold is calculated after any discounts or chip usage.
• Credits will be distributed on February 1st, 2020, after the return period for all deals has expired.

By understanding the structure of AppSumo’s Black Friday event, you’ll be better prepared to take advantage of the deals and potentially earn bonus credits for future purchases. In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into each of the available deals and provide insights to help you make informed decisions about which products to invest in during this limited-time event.

AppSumo Black Friday [00:27]

AppSumo’s Black Friday event for 2019 is structured in a unique way that may be confusing for those who aren’t paying close attention. In this section, we’ll break down the details of the event, explain how it works, and provide insights into the special features and bonuses available to AppSumo members.

Event Structure and Timing:

• The event is divided into two waves of deals.
• The first wave consists of five deals released on Sunday night.
• These initial deals are exclusively available to AppSumo Plus or Briefcase members until Thursday.
• On Thursday, November 28th at 11 pm Eastern Time (Thanksgiving night in the US), the deals will open to all users.
• Five additional deals will be released at this time, bringing the total to ten Black Friday offers.

Member Exclusive Access and Discounts:

• AppSumo Plus and Briefcase members get early access to the first wave of deals.
• Members receive an additional 10% discount on all purchases during the event.
• The author recommends choosing Briefcase over Plus membership for maximum benefits.

Special Bonus for Plus and Briefcase Members:

• Members who spend more than $250 during the Black Friday event will receive a free $50 gift in AppSumo credits.
• The $250 threshold is calculated after any discounts or chip usage.
• This bonus effectively offers a “buy five, get one free” deal for $49 products (with some additional spending required).
• Credits will be distributed on February 1st, 2020, after the return period for all deals has expired.

Potential Surprise Addition:

• The author mentions hearing from an inside source about a possible additional special surprise.
• While unconfirmed, there may be an 11th deal or another unexpected offering during the event.
• Viewers are advised to stay alert for any last-minute additions to the Black Friday lineup.

Tips for Navigating the Event:

• Pay close attention to the AppSumo website, as the deal structure can be confusing at first glance.
• Consider signing up for AppSumo Plus or Briefcase membership to access early deals and receive additional discounts.
• Keep an eye out for the second wave of deals and any potential surprises on Thursday night.
• Calculate your total spending to see if you qualify for the $50 bonus credit offer.

Importance of Careful Consideration:

• While the deals are exciting, it’s crucial to evaluate each offer carefully.
• Consider your actual needs and avoid purchasing “shelfware” that you may not use.
• Remember that the return period for these deals extends well into the new year, giving you time to test the products thoroughly.

By understanding the structure of AppSumo’s Black Friday event, you’ll be better equipped to take advantage of the best deals and potentially earn bonus credits for future purchases. In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into each of the available deals, providing insights to help you make informed decisions about which products to invest in during this limited-time event.

BookLikeABoss [04:38]

BookLikeABoss is one of the standout deals in AppSumo’s Black Friday lineup for 2019. This powerful scheduling and booking tool offers a robust alternative to popular services like Calendly, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners looking to streamline their appointment scheduling process.

Overview of BookLikeABoss:

• A comprehensive scheduling and booking solution for businesses of all sizes.
• Designed to replace services like Calendly with more features and flexibility.
• Ideal for scheduling sales calls, consultations, and various types of appointments.

Key Features:

• Customizable booking pages that can be embedded on websites or shared via link.
• Integration with popular video conferencing tools, particularly Zoom.
• Support for various appointment types, including one-on-one meetings and group sessions.
• Calendar sync to prevent double-booking and manage availability across platforms.
• Payment integration for paid consultations or services.

Integration with Zoom:

• BookLikeABoss offers seamless integration with Zoom, the industry-standard video conferencing tool.
• Users can automatically generate Zoom meeting links for each booked appointment.
• This integration works with Zoom’s free plan, allowing for up to 30-minute calls without additional cost.

Benefits for Users:

• Streamlines the appointment booking process, saving time and reducing scheduling conflicts.
• Provides a professional booking experience for clients and prospects.
• Offers flexibility in managing different types of appointments and services.
• Integrates with widely-used tools, making it easy to incorporate into existing workflows.

Considerations for Potential Buyers:

• Many long-time LTD enthusiasts may already own BookLikeABoss from previous deals.
• New users to the LTD scene will find this an excellent opportunity to acquire a powerful scheduling tool.
• Consider your current scheduling needs and whether BookLikeABoss offers features that your existing solution lacks.

Target Audience:

• Entrepreneurs and freelancers who frequently schedule client calls or consultations.
• Small business owners looking to optimize their appointment booking process.
• Service providers who offer a mix of free and paid consultations.
• Anyone seeking a more robust alternative to basic scheduling tools.

BookLikeABoss stands out as a versatile and feature-rich scheduling solution that can significantly improve the efficiency of your booking process. Its integration with Zoom and other popular tools makes it a valuable addition to any digital entrepreneur’s toolkit. If you’re new to the LTD scene or haven’t yet invested in a comprehensive scheduling solution, this Black Friday deal on BookLikeABoss is definitely worth considering.

As you evaluate whether BookLikeABoss is right for your needs, consider your current scheduling workflow, the types of appointments you typically manage, and how this tool could potentially streamline your operations. With its robust feature set and AppSumo’s attractive pricing, BookLikeABoss could be a game-changer for your business’s appointment management.

WebARX [06:01]

WebARX is a comprehensive security solution for websites, particularly those running on WordPress. This AppSumo Black Friday deal has generated some controversy in the LTD community, but it remains a powerful tool for protecting your online presence. Let’s dive into the details of WebARX and address both its strengths and the concerns raised by some users.

Overview of WebARX:

• A full-featured security solution for websites, with a focus on WordPress protection.
• Comprises two main components: a Web Application Firewall (WAF) and a WordPress plugin.
• Designed to protect websites from hackers and malicious attacks.

Key Components:

1. Web Application Firewall (WAF):

• Cloud-hosted solution that protects websites from external threats.
• Compatible with any PHP application, not limited to WordPress.
• Acts as a first line of defense against hacking attempts.

1. WordPress Plugin:

• Hardens WordPress installations against vulnerabilities.
• Adds features like reCAPTCHA and cookie notifications.
• Detects and prevents unauthorized modifications to the site.

Benefits of WebARX:

• Provides comprehensive protection against various types of cyber threats.
• Regularly updates its security measures to address new vulnerabilities.
• Offers insights and notifications about potential security issues.
• Simplifies website security management for non-technical users.

Addressing the Controversy:

• A well-known figure in the LTD community, WP Grafter, reported that his site was hacked while using WebARX.
• This incident has led to skepticism about WebARX’s effectiveness among some users.
• The author of the video argues that no security solution is perfect, citing examples of high-profile security breaches in major companies.

Author’s Perspective:

• The author strongly supports WebARX, having used it on dozens of sites without issues.
• He emphasizes that WebARX consistently updates its product and keeps users informed about vulnerabilities.
• The author views the WP Grafter incident as an opportunity for improvement rather than a reason to dismiss the product entirely.

Considerations for Potential Buyers:

• WebARX offers a balance between comprehensive protection and ease of use.
• It’s important to remember that no security solution is 100% foolproof.
• Consider your specific security needs and technical expertise when evaluating WebARX.
• The regular updates and community involvement of WebARX are positive factors to consider.

Target Audience:

• WordPress site owners looking for an all-in-one security solution.
• Website managers who want to outsource security concerns to a dedicated tool.
• Users who appreciate regular updates and community engagement from their security provider.

While the controversy surrounding WebARX has raised some concerns, it’s important to approach the product with a balanced perspective. No security solution can guarantee 100% protection, but WebARX offers a comprehensive set of features and regular updates that make it a strong contender in the website security space.

As you consider whether WebARX is the right choice for your website’s security needs, weigh the benefits of its comprehensive protection against the potential risks. Remember that effective website security often involves multiple layers of protection and best practices, regardless of the specific tools you choose to employ.

SocialMone [09:21]

SocialMonials is a social media management tool that has been included in AppSumo’s Black Friday lineup. While it offers some interesting features, the author of the video expresses some reservations about its effectiveness and overall value. Let’s explore SocialMonials in detail and consider both its features and potential drawbacks.

Overview of SocialMonials:

• A social media management tool designed to help businesses manage their social media presence.
• Offers features for scheduling posts, analyzing performance, and running viral giveaways.
• Aims to be an all-in-one solution for social media marketing needs.

Key Features:

• Social media post scheduling across multiple platforms.
• Analytics and reporting tools for measuring social media performance.
• Viral giveaway functionality to boost engagement and follower growth.
• Content curation tools to help find and share relevant content.

Author’s Concerns:

• The author expresses skepticism about tools that try to do multiple things, suggesting they often fail to excel in any single area.
• There’s a concern that SocialMonials may be attempting to cover too many bases, potentially compromising the quality of its core functionality.

Comparison to Other Tools:

• The author mentions other social media management tools like Social B and Content Studio as potentially better alternatives.
• These alternatives have been available through AppSumo and may offer more focused and refined functionality.

Considerations for Potential Buyers:

• Evaluate whether you need an all-in-one solution or if specialized tools would better serve your needs.
• Consider your specific social media management requirements and how well SocialMonials addresses them.
• Compare SocialMonials to other tools you may already own or have access to through previous AppSumo deals.

Potential Use Cases:

• Small businesses looking for an entry-level social media management solution.
• Marketers who want to experiment with viral giveaways alongside basic social media management.
• Users who prefer having multiple functionalities in a single tool, even if individual features may not be best-in-class.

Alternatives to Consider:

• Social B: Mentioned by the author as a potentially better option for social media management.
• Content Studio: Another alternative that was recently available through AppSumo.
• Specialized tools for specific functions (e.g., dedicated scheduling tools, analytics platforms, or giveaway software).

While SocialMonials offers a range of features that may be appealing to some users, the author’s reservations suggest that it may not be the best choice for everyone. When evaluating this deal, it’s crucial to consider your specific social media management needs and whether a jack-of-all-trades solution like SocialMonials is the right fit for your business.

Remember that effective social media management often requires a combination of the right tools and a solid strategy. While all-in-one solutions can be convenient, they may not always provide the depth of functionality that specialized tools offer. Consider your current social media workflow, the platforms you use most frequently, and your long-term marketing goals when deciding whether SocialMonials is the right investment for your business this Black Friday.

DepositPhotos [10:56]

DepositPhotos is a well-known stock photography platform that frequently appears in AppSumo’s deals, including this Black Friday event. This deal offers users the opportunity to purchase credits for high-quality stock photos at a discounted rate. Let’s explore the DepositPhotos offer and consider its value for different types of users.

Overview of DepositPhotos:

• A popular stock photography platform offering a vast library of high-quality images.
• The AppSumo deal provides credits for downloading stock photos at a discounted rate.
• Regularly featured on AppSumo, making it a familiar offer for many LTD enthusiasts.

Key Benefits:

• Access to a large database of professional-quality stock photos.
• Significantly lower prices compared to regular stock photo subscriptions.
• Flexibility to use credits over time, as needed for various projects.
• Legal rights to use images in commercial projects (always check specific license terms).

Author’s Perspective:

• The author considers DepositPhotos a great deal, especially for those who haven’t purchased it before.
• He emphasizes that while custom photography or illustrations are ideal, stock photos from DepositPhotos are far superior to free stock photo websites.

Comparison to Free Stock Photo Sites:

• DepositPhotos offers a wider variety and higher quality of images compared to free sites.
• Using paid stock photos helps avoid the overuse of common free images, making your content stand out.
• Paid stock photos often come with more flexible licensing terms for commercial use.

Considerations for Potential Buyers:

• Evaluate your current and future needs for stock photography in your projects.
• Consider whether you already have credits from previous DepositPhotos deals on AppSumo.
• Compare the AppSumo offer to other stock photo subscriptions or credit packages you might be considering.

Best Uses for DepositPhotos:

• Creating visually appealing marketing materials and social media content.
• Enhancing blog posts and articles with relevant, high-quality images.
• Designing websites and landing pages with professional-looking visuals.
• Sourcing images for presentations, reports, and other business documents.

Tips for Maximizing Value:

• Plan your image needs in advance to make the most of your credits.
• Use DepositPhotos for key visuals and supplement with your own photos or custom graphics when possible.
• Combine stock photos with graphic design elements to create unique, branded imagery.

According to the author, the DepositPhotos deal on AppSumo represents the best value currently available for premium stock photography. This makes it an attractive offer for businesses, marketers, and content creators who regularly need high-quality images for their projects. However, it’s important to consider your specific needs and usage patterns before making a purchase.

Target Audience:

• Digital marketers and content creators who regularly need stock photos for various projects.
• Web designers and developers looking for high-quality images to enhance their designs.
• Small business owners who want to improve their visual branding without breaking the bank.
• Bloggers and social media managers seeking diverse, professional-quality visuals for their content.

While DepositPhotos offers excellent value, it’s crucial to remember that stock photography should be used thoughtfully. The author advises against relying solely on stock photos, especially for key branding elements or when custom photography would significantly enhance your message. Instead, use DepositPhotos as a valuable resource to complement your visual strategy, filling gaps where custom visuals aren’t feasible or necessary.

As you consider whether to invest in the DepositPhotos deal this Black Friday, think about your upcoming projects, your current image library, and how often you find yourself needing high-quality stock photos. For many digital professionals, having a robust stock photo resource like DepositPhotos can be a game-changer, allowing them to create more visually appealing content quickly and cost-effectively.

HeySummit [12:03]

HeySummit is the final deal discussed in the first wave of AppSumo’s Black Friday offerings. This platform is designed to help users organize and manage virtual summits, providing a comprehensive solution for event organizers. Let’s delve into the features of HeySummit and consider its potential value for different users.

Overview of HeySummit:

• A platform specifically designed for organizing and managing virtual summits.
• Offers tools for event administration, speaker management, and attendee engagement.
• Focuses on the organizational aspects of summits rather than video streaming.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive administrative front-end for managing all aspects of a virtual summit.
• Tools for speaker management and scheduling.
• Attendee registration and engagement features.
• Integration options with video streaming platforms like Zoom, LiveWebinar, and BigMarker.
• Rescheduling options for flexible event management.

Comparison to Other Platforms:

• The author compares HeySummit to Hopin, another virtual event platform:
• Hopin includes video streaming capabilities but lacks robust replay options.
• HeySummit focuses on event management and integrates with external video platforms.

Potential Use Cases:

• Organizing large-scale virtual conferences or summits.
• Hosting multi-speaker online events or series.
• Managing webinar series with multiple presenters and sessions.
• Creating online learning events or symposiums.

Considerations for Potential Buyers:

• Evaluate your current and future plans for hosting virtual events.
• Consider whether you need a comprehensive summit platform or if simpler webinar tools suffice.
• Check if you already have compatible video streaming solutions (e.g., Zoom, BigMarker) to pair with HeySummit.

Author’s Perspective:

• The author sees HeySummit as a valuable tool for those planning actual summits.
• However, he expresses concern about users purchasing it without concrete plans for use.
• He encourages potential buyers to be realistic about their needs and avoid “shelfware” purchases.

Target Audience:

• Event organizers planning large-scale virtual conferences.
• Businesses looking to host industry summits or thought leadership events.
• Educational institutions planning online symposiums or lecture series.
• Marketers aiming to create multi-speaker virtual events for lead generation.

Tips for Maximizing Value:

• Have a concrete plan for using HeySummit before purchasing.
• Consider pairing HeySummit with other AppSumo deals like BigMarker for a complete virtual event solution.
• Start small and scale up your virtual events as you become more comfortable with the platform.

While HeySummit offers powerful features for virtual summit organizers, it’s important to approach this deal with a realistic perspective on your event hosting needs. The author cautions against purchasing HeySummit (or any software) without a clear plan for its use, emphasizing the importance of avoiding “shelfware” – software that sits unused after purchase.

If you’re seriously considering hosting virtual summits or large-scale online events, HeySummit could be a valuable addition to your toolkit. However, if your needs are more aligned with simple webinars or small-scale online meetings, you might want to explore other options or stick with your current solutions.

As you evaluate whether HeySummit is right for you this Black Friday, consider your event hosting plans for the coming year, your target audience, and the scale of events you’re likely to organize. For those with concrete plans for virtual summits, HeySummit could be a game-changing tool that streamlines the entire event management process.

Outro [13:37]

As we wrap up our comprehensive look at AppSumo’s first wave of Black Friday deals for 2019, it’s important to reflect on the offerings and consider how they might fit into your business or personal toolkit. Let’s summarize the key points and provide some final thoughts on navigating this exciting sales event.

Recap of Deals:

1. BookLikeABoss: A robust scheduling and booking solution.
2. WebARX: A comprehensive website security tool, particularly for WordPress.
3. SocialMonials: An all-in-one social media management platform.
4. DepositPhotos: A stock photography service offering discounted credit packages.
5. HeySummit: A virtual summit organization and management platform.

Key Takeaways:

• AppSumo’s Black Friday event is structured in two waves, with exclusive early access for Plus and Briefcase members.
• Each deal offers unique value, but it’s crucial to assess your specific needs before purchasing.
• Consider the long-term utility of each tool to avoid acquiring “shelfware” that goes unused.
• Some deals, like DepositPhotos, represent excellent value and are worth considering even if you don’t have an immediate use case.
• Be cautious with all-in-one solutions like SocialMonials, as they may not excel in all areas.

Looking Ahead:

• The author mentions that a second wave of deals will be released on Thursday night (Thanksgiving in the US).
• There’s a possibility of additional surprise offerings beyond the announced deals.
• Stay tuned for future videos covering the second wave of AppSumo’s Black Friday deals.

Final Advice:

• Evaluate each deal based on your current needs and future plans.
• Don’t feel pressured to buy every deal – focus on tools that will truly benefit your work or business.
• Remember that AppSumo often offers extended refund periods, giving you time to test the products thoroughly.
• Consider the potential return on investment for each tool, especially if you’re on a tight budget.

Engagement and Support:

• The author encourages viewers to subscribe to his channel for future updates on AppSumo deals and LTD news.
• Viewers are invited to join the Facebook group for discussions about these deals and other LTD topics.
• The author provides an affiliate link for those who wish to support the channel while shopping on AppSumo.

As you navigate AppSumo’s Black Friday event, remember to approach each deal with a critical eye and a clear understanding of your needs. While the allure of lifetime deals can be strong, the true value lies in finding tools that will genuinely enhance your productivity and contribute to your success.

Whether you’re a seasoned LTD enthusiast or new to the world of AppSumo deals, this Black Friday event offers exciting opportunities to expand your digital toolkit. By carefully considering each offer and aligning your purchases with your goals, you can make the most of this limited-time event and set yourself up for success in the coming year.

Stay tuned for more updates on AppSumo’s Black Friday deals, and don’t hesitate to engage with the LTD community for insights and discussions about these exciting offers. Happy deal hunting!

Key Takeaways

As we conclude our in-depth exploration of AppSumo’s first wave of Black Friday deals for 2019, let’s summarize the key points and provide some final thoughts to help you navigate this exciting sales event:

Event Structure:

• AppSumo’s Black Friday event is divided into two waves of deals.
• The first wave offers five deals with early access for Plus and Briefcase members.
• A second wave will be released on Thursday night, adding five more deals and opening access to all users.

Exclusive Member Benefits:

• AppSumo Plus and Briefcase members get early access and additional discounts.
• Members spending over $250 during the event receive a $50 credit (to be distributed in February 2020).

Deal Highlights:

• BookLikeABoss: A comprehensive scheduling solution, great for new LTD users.
• WebARX: A robust website security tool, despite some controversy.
• DepositPhotos: Highly recommended for high-quality stock photos at a great price.
• HeySummit: Valuable for those planning virtual summits, but consider your actual needs.
• SocialMonials: An all-in-one social media tool, but the author suggests caution.

Purchasing Strategy:

• Evaluate each deal based on your current and future needs.
• Avoid buying “shelfware” – tools you’re unlikely to use.
• Consider the long-term value and potential return on investment for each purchase.
• Take advantage of AppSumo’s extended refund periods to thoroughly test products.

Industry Insights:

• The LTD market is evolving, with an increasing focus on virtual event and online business tools.
• There’s a trend towards all-in-one solutions, but specialized tools often perform better in specific areas.
• Stock photography remains a valuable resource, with DepositPhotos offering exceptional value.

Future Outlook:

• Stay tuned for the second wave of deals and potential surprises.
• The author hints at possible additional offerings beyond the announced deals.

Community Engagement:

• The LTD community plays a crucial role in evaluating and discussing these deals.
• Engaging with forums, Facebook groups, and YouTube channels can provide valuable insights.

Critical Thinking:

• Approach each deal with a critical eye, considering both benefits and potential drawbacks.
• Remember that no tool is perfect, and even popular solutions like WebARX may have limitations.

Balancing Excitement and Practicality:

• While Black Friday deals are exciting, it’s crucial to maintain a practical approach to purchasing.
• Focus on tools that align with your business goals and workflow needs.

Continuous Learning:

The rapidly evolving digital landscape requires staying informed about new tools and trends.

Use resources like the author’s channel and community groups to stay updated on LTD news and reviews.

As you navigate AppSumo’s Black Friday event, remember that the true value of any tool lies in how well it serves your specific needs and contributes to your productivity or business growth. By carefully considering each offer, aligning your purchases with your goals, and engaging with the LTD community, you can make informed decisions that will benefit you long after the Black Friday excitement has passed.

Whether you’re building a digital marketing toolkit, enhancing your website security, or preparing to host virtual events, AppSumo’s Black Friday deals offer opportunities to acquire powerful tools at significant discounts. However, the key to success lies not just in the tools you acquire, but in how effectively you implement and utilize them in your work.

Stay tuned for updates on the second wave of deals, and don’t hesitate to revisit this guide as you make your purchasing decisions. Happy deal hunting, and may your Black Friday purchases contribute to a successful and productive year ahead!