Nice thread John.
I like Bill's approach to licensing domains - I think long term that has some enormous benefits.
The question of finding end-users is a changing and variable landscape. More and more end-users are finding their way into the traditional "domainers" territory. Sometimes you will be hard-pressed to know what their intention is (unless you have some industry knowledge of the players and what they are doing).
The best advice that I've been given is look to some of the fastest growing companies in the US and in industries that typically heavy on engineering. Why? Engineers - particulary in the energy fields have a very traditional mindset that has not quite caught up with the leverage of online activities.
That is changing and will continue to change for many years. That doesn't mean they are going throw "silly" money around, but if they like what they see and have it presented in a way that gives them some clear "upside" then you have a good shot at getting positive interest.
Look deeper than just the news to find the trouble spots. Globally we are in an age where technical hands-on skills have declined dramatically, yet the need for them has increased beyond comprehension.
I'm not sure where you live, but if I called a plumber to come fix a few pipes, the going rate is about 160 an hour........ Man - that's before the actual problem is identified....
So, for domain name end-users, look beyond the obvious. There are quite often deeper pockets floating around, but they are getting smarter all the time.
The good news is that you won't find much of an argument over $1000 here and there. The comment on going to the marketing department was a good one, but don't stop there. Try and send something to an owner or the CEO. Why? 9 times out of 10 they are shielded by great screening processes, however have the raw passion and desire to see great deals. They generally built the company and have an innate and profound association with everything that happens. Overtime the layers of middle management "protect" and "insulate" these guys from what they like doing (being creative and innovative).
In summary - don't be afraid to go to the top and don't accept that because a company has not responded they are uninterested. Companies build layers for reasons, but that doesn't mean the decision makers are untouched by raw potential and enthusiasm.
As a word of caution though, if you go to the top, know what you want and don't "F" around. You'll get a reasonable hearing if you can sum it up in a page and don't fill your approach with a lot of BS.
Of course, this is just my 2 cents worth of thoughts - works for some - not others.
The main thing is that end-users are closer than you think...........
