What is Subscription Software and Why Do I Want It?
What is Subscription Software and Why Do I Want It
?
Memberhsip (aka. Subscription) software is a type of program that can be installed on your website and then configured to hide certain pages (or the entire website) for membership access only.
When you install subscription software onto your website what you are really doing is creating a barrier between members and non-members. Non-members will, of course, only have access to the basic information on your site, while members will enjoy the privilege of other pages of interest.
Example 1: A popular example of membership websites are online academic journals which allow all visitors to browse the titles of the journals, but only members will have access to actually reading them.
Example 2: Most universities websites have pages within their site that are available to everyone and other pages only available to students. Students automatically are given membership access and can login to view these 'membership only' pages.
Why Do I Want Members On My Website?
Before deciding to purchase membership software for your site, think about some of the reasons that it might be beneficial.
1. With membership software, you have the choice to charge for membership and access to certain parts of your website. This can help you to create an income through your website.
2. Some websites offer free membership (which requires that their users still login). The benefit here is that your members will have to provide you with personal information such as their email address.
This is a privilege that must not be abused, but of course, can be used to create a better relationship with your members by offering them helpful and interesting information via email, as well as offers and specials that you might be holding on your site.