The code is free, but the aggregated data might not :) And the knowledge about how to aggregate, and how to transform this data.
For example, approach Starbucks, and ask them where do they plan to open new stores (er... I know SB specifically is closing shops, but the point remains), and then SELL to them data about the area.
Sure, lots of information are already available on the website. What's to stop Starbucks to just enter the website and do their research? That's where intimate knowledge about the data comes in. SB won't ask what the website can answer. They'll expand the questions, and ask you to convert the data to Excel, and etc..
Know what business need! And put a line on the sand: Your people will do a lot of things that are free to consume and use and mashup and all that jazz. But some of them, you will charge, specially the one-time jobs, or for those rich enough to pay...
For example, approach Starbucks, and ask them where do they plan to open new stores (er... I know SB specifically is closing shops, but the point remains), and then SELL to them data about the area.
Sure, lots of information are already available on the website. What's to stop Starbucks to just enter the website and do their research? That's where intimate knowledge about the data comes in. SB won't ask what the website can answer. They'll expand the questions, and ask you to convert the data to Excel, and etc..
Know what business need! And put a line on the sand: Your people will do a lot of things that are free to consume and use and mashup and all that jazz. But some of them, you will charge, specially the one-time jobs, or for those rich enough to pay...