What impact did the creation of cheaper knock-off versions of Neil's software have?

The creation of cheaper knock-off versions of Neil's software likely had a significant impact on its economic viability. When lower-cost alternatives enter the market, they can attract price-sensitive customers away from the original product. This scenario can lead to a decrease in sales and market share for Neil’s software, making it less economically viable. The presence of these knock-offs often forces original developers to reconsider their pricing strategies, product features, or even engage in marketing efforts to highlight their product's unique value.

In contrast, increased market competition can lead to benefits for consumers, such as lower prices or more product choices, but it can also be detrimental to the original creators if they cannot compete effectively. Enhanced product visibility may occur for knock-offs, but it doesn't necessarily correlate with the original product's success or economic health. Similarly, improved customer trust typically stems from consistent quality and reliability, which can be compromised with the influx of lower-quality imitations. Thus, while there are other resultant factors, the most direct and immediate impact observed here is on the economic viability of the original software.