I have been spending the last 18 months developing a software that I will be selling in a niche industry for a monthly fee. It is about a month out from beta, and I am trying to figure out the best way to sell it. My background is sales, so I understand sales, but sales models are a different story.

To get specific, the software is literally one of a kind, and after talking with many in the market it seems it will do very well. I will be offering a one month free trial and it will be $199/month after that. They can cancel anytime.

I can cover sales to start, but I am hoping to get some advice on a good next step for sales strategy. The idea that is most enticing to me is to offer a commission only structure to independent sales people. Specifically, I would give them 15-20% of the monthly fee every month the customer stays signed up. It give the rep incentive to maintain a good relationship with the customer and it feasibly gives the rep residual income long term if the software performs (i.e. sell 400 customers and get $12,000/month inevitably). Being from a sales background, I believe once a salesperson hears what my software does and how it compares they will be beating down my door, at least, I know I would.

I am still in startup mode and am using my own cash, so paying salaries is not a feasible option until revenues begin coming in. Is this a good approach? Any other ideas? Any suggestions on companies/resources that could direct me to finding a group to sell across the country?

One last question - there is a tradeshow in the next couple months that would be good for us to attend, but it's going to cost me at least $5,000 or so. I've never done a tradeshow. Is it a good investment? Is there any better way to spend $5,000 to generate sales (especially since it's coming from my pocket)?

Thanks for any suggestions