Understanding the Credits System
Learn how EcoDesign's credit-based system works, including project credits, AI usage credits, and how to manage your account efficiently.
Quick Overview
EcoDesign uses a flexible credit system that separates project creation from AI usage, giving you control over how you use the platform. Your current credit balance is always visible in the top navigation bar.
Video Tutorial: Understanding EcoDesign Credits
Watch this detailed explanation of how EcoDesign's credit system works, including project credits, AI usage credits, and tips for maximizing value:
This video demonstrates how project credits and AI research credits work, plus strategies for efficient credit usage and account management.
Types of Credits
EcoDesign uses several types of credits for different features:
Garden Project Credits
Purpose: Create garden-scale projects
Covers: Urban gardens, terrace gardens, home gardens, community gardens, green roofs
Typical Usage: 1 credit per garden project
Scale: Projects typically up to 1000 sqm
Big Project Credits
Purpose: Create large-scale ecological projects
Covers: Ecological farms, eco-villages, restoration projects, sustainable agriculture
Typical Usage: 1 credit per big project
Scale: Projects from 1000 sqm to multiple hectares
AI Research Credits
Purpose: Use AI research agents and tools
Covers: AI conversations, research analysis, design suggestions
Usage: Based on AI processing (tokens used)
Rate: Approximately 1 credit per 1000 AI tokens
Universal Project Credits
Purpose: Can be used for any project type
Flexibility: Use for either garden or big projects
Best For: Users who create different project types
Note: Often provided as welcome bonuses or promotions
How Credits Are Used
Project Creation
Creating Projects
When you create a new project:
- The system checks your available credits for that project type
- If you have credits, one is deducted automatically
- If you don't have credits, you'll be prompted to purchase more
- Universal credits can substitute for specific project credits
Note: Credits are only deducted when the project is successfully created.
AI Research Usage
AI Conversations
AI credits are used for:
- Initial Research: Comprehensive site analysis by AI agents
- Follow-up Questions: Additional AI responses and clarifications
- Design Suggestions: AI-powered recommendations (Designer users)
- Research Tools: Advanced sustainability research features
Credit Calculation
AI credits are calculated based on actual AI processing:
- Token Usage: Every 1000 AI tokens = ~1 credit, with a minimum of 2 credits per AI response
- Variable Cost: Complex questions use more tokens than simple ones
- Transparency: You can see token usage in conversation history
- Efficiency: Our AI is optimized to provide maximum value per credit
Checking Your Credits
Real-Time Balance
Always Visible
Your current AI credit balance is displayed in the top navigation bar of every page. This shows your available credits for AI research and conversations.
Location: Look for the green credit counter next to your profile icon
Updates: The balance updates automatically as you use credits
Detailed Usage Information
For detailed credit usage and history:
- Visit your User Profile page
- Check project creation history in My Projects
- Review AI conversation history for token usage details
Credit Management Tips
Maximizing Your Credits
Best Practices
- Prepare Questions: Well-prepared, specific questions get better AI responses with fewer follow-ups
- Use Project Data: Complete project settings help AI provide more accurate analysis
- Batch Questions: Ask multiple related questions in one conversation rather than starting new ones
- Review Conversations: Previous AI responses often contain information you need
- Start Simple: Begin with general questions, then get specific
When You're Running Low
Low Credits
If your credits are running low:
- Check Usage: Review recent AI conversations to understand token usage
- Prioritize Questions: Focus on the most important research needs
- Use Knowledge Base: Many questions can be answered through our free educational resources
- Contact Support: Our team can help optimize your credit usage
- Purchase More: Add credits to continue your research
New User Benefits
Welcome Bonus
New users typically receive:
- 200 AI Research Credits: Get started with comprehensive AI analysis
- 1 Free Project Credit: Create your first project at no cost
- Full Platform Access: Experience all features during your trial
- Learning Resources: Unlimited access to knowledge base and tutorials
Goal: This gives you enough credits to fully explore the platform and create a complete project with AI research.
Credit Purchasing
How to Add Credits
When you need additional credits:
- Click on your credit balance in the top navigation
- Choose the credit package that fits your needs
- Complete the secure payment process
- Credits are added to your account immediately
Credit Packages
We offer flexible credit packages to match different usage patterns:
- Starter Packages: Perfect for individual projects
- Professional Packages: Ideal for multiple projects or extensive research
- Enterprise Solutions: Custom packages for organizations
Subscription vs. Pay-Per-Use
Pay-Per-Use
Best for: Occasional users, specific projects
Benefits:
- No monthly commitment
- Pay only for what you use
- Credits don't expire
- Full feature access
Subscription Plans
Best for: Regular users, multiple projects
Benefits:
- Monthly credit allocation
- Discounted rates
- Priority support
- Advanced features
Understanding Your Bill
Billing Transparency
Your billing is always transparent and predictable:
- Project Credits: Fixed cost per project creation
- AI Credits: Based on actual AI processing usage
- No Hidden Fees: No setup fees, no cancellation fees
- Usage Reports: Detailed breakdown of credit usage
- Payment History: Complete record of all transactions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do my credits expire?
A: No, purchased credits do not expire. However, promotional or bonus credits may have expiration dates, which will be clearly communicated.
Q: Can I get a refund for unused credits?
A: Refund policies vary by purchase type. Contact our support team to discuss your specific situation.
Q: Why do some AI conversations use more credits than others?
A: Credit usage depends on the complexity of your question and the depth of analysis required. More detailed questions and comprehensive research use more AI processing power.
Q: Can I transfer credits between different project types?
A: Universal project credits can be used for any project type. Specific project credits (garden/big) are only for their respective project types.
Q: How can I optimize my credit usage?
A: Prepare detailed project information, ask specific questions, and use our performance tips to get the most value from your credits.
Need Help with Credits?
Our support team is here to help you understand and optimize your credit usage. Contact us with any questions about billing, credits, or account management.