While the headline 'Publishing company Pearson wants people to mash up its content, open-sources API' is misleading (it's not open source, they simply opened the API), KnowProSE LLC did apply for and obtain an API License to explore development projects. The model is interesting; it permits one to develop and own the code. The content, however, still belongs to the relevant Pearson project:
The APIs are straightforward and simple so there's little issue in the way of accessing content through the APIs. That the content access is tiered should almost go without saying; where there is a low number of API calls - where less content is served through the APIs - there is no charge. Basically, the more you call the APIs, the more you pay. Quoting the prices for those tiers doesn't seem to make sense as it's likely that the prices will change over time.
Of the three, the FT Press is the only one with an affiliate program. This means that the API could be used by affiliates who wish to customize their presence on the web and through mobile devices would definitely benefit.
The others would require subscription models for them to be effective; basically development costs of an application (Android/Apple) would have to be recouped through either sale of applications through the relevant mobile application stores and a subscription model for the application to access the content.
KnowProSE LLC can do these sort of applications and is presently considering them for internal projects.
Contact KnowProSE LLC if you have a project you'd like to discuss regarding the Pearson APIs.
