Charging monthly subscription fees is a smart move for any business looking to secure a steady income stream. Switching to a subscription model will not only ensure a steady income for you but also make the payment procedure hassle-free for your users. You'll know exactly what's coming in each month, making it easier to plan ahead, budget effectively, and reinvest in your business.

In this article, we'll guide you through setting up automatic recurring charges for your online course. Keep reading to keep your income stream steady so you can focus more on growth.

What Is a Monthly Recurring Charge?

Monthly subscription fees are charges that customers pay regularly, usually each month, to gain access to a product or service. This model ensures that revenue flows into your business at consistent intervals. Subscription-based businesses are becoming more popular because of their perks like steady income, less initial investment, growth opportunities and more!

But how does it actually work?

Simply put, customers sign up once, and their payment method is automatically charged on a recurring basis until they decide to cancel. This automatic renewal keeps the process smooth both for you and your customers.

Benefits of Setting Up Monthly Recurring Charge?

Implementing a monthly recurring fee can seem like an ideal strategy for generating a stable income. When it works well, it can significantly enhance your cash flow. But that's not all that monthly recurring fees can help with. Here are a few key benefits you can enjoy from monthly recurring fees.

Convenience for customers: Customers appreciate the convenience of automatic billing. They don’t have to worry about making manual payments, and you can reduce the risk of late or missed payments.

Opportunities for upselling: A recurring payment model creates opportunities to upsell additional features or services to existing subscribers, further increasing revenue.

Lower customer acquisition costs: Retaining customers through recurring charges is often more cost-effective than acquiring new ones, which will help improve overall profitability.

Scalability and business growth: Monthly subscriptions allow businesses to scale efficiently by acquiring more subscribers without significantly increasing operational costs.

Increased business valuation: Companies with recurring revenue models often have higher valuations, as investors see predictable income as a sign of stability and growth potential.

Best Practices for Setting Up Monthly Recurring Charges

Now that you know how beneficial recurring fees are for your business, it's understandable if you can't wait to set it up! But we'd want you to prepare for success, and that brings us to the best practices. While recurring charging model is super effective, it comes with its challenges too. And being familiar with the best practices will help you ensure the right model for your business.

1. Understand Your Target Audience

Before launching a recurring billing model, it’s crucial to understand your audience’s needs, preferences, and behaviors. Conduct market research to determine what features or services your users value most and their willingness to pay. Customer personas can help you align your offerings with their expectations.

Knowing your audience ensures that your pricing strategy resonates with them and attracts long-term subscribers. On the flip side, if you run a subscription model without understanding your users' needs, you'll end up losing more users than retaining them!

2. Choose the Right Pricing Strategy

Your pricing strategy can make or break your subscription model. Consider different approaches such as:

• Tiered pricing: Offer multiple plans with varying features or limits. This gives customers the flexibility to choose based on their needs.
• Flat rates: Simplify the decision process by charging all customers a fixed monthly fee.
• Usage-based charges: Charge based on how much of your service or product is consumed.

You don't necessarily have to stick to these pricing models. Rather, based on your users and their willingness to pay for your service, you can devise a recurring payment model that works better for your business.

3. Provide Clear and Transparent Terms

Set clear expectations for your customers from the start. Communicate all the details about:

• Billing cycles (e.g., monthly or annual).
• Refund and cancellation policies.
• Any additional or hidden fees.

Credibility is the key to success in the subscription-based business world, and you can't prosper without being transparent about everything. Transparency builds trust and helps avoid disputes or dissatisfaction. Include this information in your terms of service, checkout page, and confirmation emails.

4. Use Reliable Billing Software

A robust and reliable billing system is the backbone of any subscription model. Choose software that automates recurring payments, tracks invoices, and handles failed transactions. Features to look for include:

• Automated reminders for upcoming payments.
• Secure storage of payment information.
• Support for multiple currencies.

The billing software that offers these features will automate your administrative tasks so you can focus more on important tasks like content management, lead generation, and branding.

5. Offer Multiple Payment Options

Flexibility in payment methods can significantly improve your conversion rates. Offer a variety of options, such as credit/debit cards, bank transfers, PayPal, and digital wallets. Additionally, consider supporting global payment methods if you cater to an international audience. The easier you make it for customers to pay, the more likely they are to subscribe and keep paying for your services.

6. Implement a Trial Period or Freemium Model

Many customers hesitate to commit without first experiencing the value of your offering. That's why giving them a taste of your product or service for free is an excellent idea to get them hooked. You can also generate leads while at it.

By providing a free trial or a limited freemium version, you give users a risk-free opportunity to explore your service. Ensure that the trial showcases your best features and makes it easy for users to transition into paid plans once it ends.

7. Make Cancelling Easy

Making it easy for customers to cancel their subscriptions might seem counterintuitive, but it fosters trust and goodwill. If customers feel trapped, they’re more likely to leave negative reviews or avoid returning in the future. A simple cancellation process shows confidence in your product and leaves a positive impression, even if a customer decides to leave.

And as long as your offer provides value, you have nothing to worry about, right?

8. Focus on Customer Support

Exceptional customer support can turn dissatisfied customers into loyal advocates. Ensure your support team is easily accessible and trained to promptly handle billing issues, technical problems, or service-related queries. To cater to different customer preferences, offer multiple support channels, such as live chat, email, and phone.

9. Test and Refine the Model

Your initial subscription model may need adjustments as you gather data and feedback. Periodically test new pricing strategies, feature bundles, or billing frequencies to see what works best. Use A/B testing and customer feedback to refine your offerings and meet market demands.

The more trendy you are, the more fine-tuned pricing models you can develop. These pricing models will help your users choose your product or service over your competitors.

10. Ensure Compliance with Legal and Tax Requirements

Recurring billing involves handling sensitive customer data and complying with various laws. Ensure that your payment systems adhere to data protection regulations like GDPR or CCPA. Be aware of tax implications for subscription services in different regions and implement processes for accurate tax collection and reporting. Partnering with a legal or tax advisor can help you avoid costly mistakes.

Features Needed to Set up Monthly Recurring Charges

Various tools are available on the Internet that offer the features needed to set up monthly recurring fees. But if you don't want to settle for the basics, we've got just the right tool for you.

WishList Member is an excellent tool for organizing and maximizing a monthly subscription model, thanks to its comprehensive features explicitly designed for membership site management. Here are the key features that make WishList Member particularly suited to this goal:

Flexible Membership Levels

WishList Member allows you to create unlimited membership levels, offering you the flexibility to tailor your subscription offerings. You can set different access levels, prices, and durations to cater to diverse customer needs. This feature lets you gradually release content to members over time, which can help maintain member engagement and reduce churn.

Seamless Payment Integrations

WishList Member integrates with various payment gateways, including PayPal, Stripe, and others, facilitating the easy setup of recurring payments. Members can easily upgrade or downgrade their subscriptions based on their needs, which enhances user experience and satisfaction.

Content Protection

You can protect your content at various levels – categories, files, posts, and pages – ensuring that only the right membership levels can access premium content. On top of that, it offers a preview of premium content to non-members to entice them to subscribe, improving conversion rates.

Integrations with Other Tools

Integration with popular email marketing tools like MailChimp, ConvertKit, and ActiveCampaign allows you to send targeted communication, from welcome emails to payment reminders. Plus, you can also enjoy Integration with analytics tools, which help you understand member behavior and refine your marketing strategies.

Automated Admin Functions

Set up auto-renewals to ensure uninterrupted access for users and reduce manual administrative work. Automate the cancellation process, making it easy for users to manage their subscriptions and for you to maintain accurate records.

How To Set Up Monthly Recurring Charges Using WishList Member: 3 Easy Steps

Setting up recurring charges with a WishList member is easier than anything else. It allows you to set the whole procedure on autopilot, allowing you to focus more on other important things. Let's see how you can set up monthly recurring charges with just a few steps.

Step 1: Download and Install WishList Member

First, go to WishList Member plans and choose the perfect plan for you. Then, go to your WordPress dashboard and click on Plugins. On the next page, click on Add New Plugin.

Then, hit the Upload Plugin button and choose the zip file you downloaded from the WishList Member website. 

Step 2: Set Up Your Membership Levels

• Go to WishList Member on your WordPress dashboard.
• Navigate to Setup and then choose Levels.
• Here, you can create new membership levels or edit existing ones, setting the terms for access but not the billing directly.

2. Integrate with a Payment Gateway

• Within WishList Member, go to Setup and select Integrations.
• Click on the Payment Providers tab.
• Choose from supported payment gateways such as PayPal, Stripe, or others that facilitate recurring payments. You must set up these services outside of WishList Member to handle the billing and subscription logic.

3. Configure the Payment Gateway for Recurring Payments:

• Follow the specific instructions for your chosen payment gateway to enable recurring billing.
• Link these settings back to the membership levels you have configured in WishList Member to ensure that payments are processed according to the membership terms.

Before going live, test the payment process thoroughly to confirm that the recurring billing functions as expected and that user access is not disrupted. And there you have it! With WishList Member, you facilitate easier payments while optimizing your membership site for continuous growth and member satisfaction.

Which Integrated Payment Platform Should You Use?

Choosing the best integration for managing subscription payments depends on several factors, including your specific business needs, the geographical location of your customers, and the specific features you require.

Here’s a breakdown of some popular integrations and what makes each potentially the best option for different scenarios:

1. Stripe:
   • Best for: Ease of use, modern API, and comprehensive feature set.
   • Features: Supports recurring payments, automatic card updates, and handles multiple currencies. Stripe is renowned for its robust security, straightforward pricing, and excellent customer experience.
     
2. PayPal:
   • Best for: Wide acceptance and trust among consumers.
   • Features: Offers PayPal Standard and PayPal Express Checkout, both of which support recurring payments. It's particularly useful if you have a broad customer base that prefers PayPal as a payment method.
     
3. Authorize.net:
   • Best for: Businesses needing a reliable and secure payment gateway.
   • Features: Supports recurring payments and includes advanced fraud detection services. It’s a great choice if security is a high priority for your business.
     
4. Infusionsoft by Keap:
   • Best for: Businesses that require both payment processing and CRM capabilities.
   • Features: Offers robust CRM tools alongside recurring payment support, making it ideal for businesses looking to manage customer relationships and payments within a single platform.
     
5. ThriveCart:
   • Best for: Maximizing conversions through optimized checkout processes.
   • Features: While primarily a cart solution, ThriveCart offers strong support for subscription management, affiliate marketing, and upselling capabilities.
     
6. ClickBank:
   • Best for: Businesses that also want to leverage an affiliate network.
   • Features: Supports recurring billing and provides access to an extensive affiliate network to help drive sales and increase visibility.

Marketing Strategies for Your Monthly Recurring Charge Model

When it comes to subscription marketing, attracting new subscribers is just the first step. The real challenge lies in increasing retention and reducing churn. Here are some effective strategies that can help:

1. Offer Incentives for Advance Payments

Encourage your customers to commit to your brand long-term by offering annual subscription options. This not only ensures their continued engagement but also provides your business with a stable revenue base.

You can also consider offering a discount or a free month to encourage upfront payment for the year. Highlight the value of these plans through direct comparisons, showing customers the benefits and savings they gain, similar to what Fabfitfun does with their annual subscriptions.

2. Create a Sense of Exclusivity

Create a subscription model with limited spots to enhance the exclusivity and allure of your service. For example, the Coca-Cola Insiders Club offered exclusive access to new products and swag for a limited number of members, and due to high demand, it filled up quickly. Provide special discounts or exclusive products to members only, enhancing the perceived value of the subscription.

3. Leverage Referrals

Happy customers are the best advocates for your brand. Encourage them to refer friends and family in exchange for rewards, free courses, ebooks, etc. This referral scheme will get more people to sign up for your recurring subscription, boosting the overall growth of your business.

4. Reward Long-term Loyalty

Regularly acknowledge and reward your loyal customers. Whether through discounts, special offers, or freebies, make sure the rewards are meaningful. For example, if a user has been subscribed to your service for over a couple of years, you can give them a certain percentage off on their renewal.

Is Monthly Recurring Charge the Ultimate Solution for Your Business?

To wrap up, we’ve covered essential strategies and best practices for effectively setting up and managing monthly subscription fees. Utilizing these techniques can help stabilize your revenue, enhance member engagement, and ensure your business thrives in the competitive online landscape.

But it's ultimately your call, and we hope our blog has helped you understand whether monthly recurring fees will be a great fit for your business. If you decide to try a recurring fee-based model, don't forget to try WishList Member.

Enjoyed this article? Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Plus, get notified about feature updates, upgrades, and more when you subscribe to our newsletter!

But what exactly is online branding?

Well, if you look up the term “Online Branding,” you'll get way too many answers online. And somehow, they all seem somewhat true! With new platforms, shifting trends, and rapidly advancing technologies, you must keep your online branding strategies fresh and up-to-date. 

And that's what we are going to address today.

In this blog, we'll explore the best ways to build a powerful online brand. We’ll share practical insights and essential tools to help you stay ahead in terms of online branding.

What is Online Branding?

The world of digital marketing is changing faster than ever, and staying ahead of these changes is crucial to building a strong online brand. Trends like the rise of short-form video content, increased focus on personalized customer experiences, and the growing popularity of community-driven platforms are shaping how brands connect with audiences. 

You need all of these to perfect your online branding. But that does not mean having just a bare presence on all platforms. Knowing what to do on which platform will be the determining factor.

Consumers today expect more than just products or services. They crave:

• Meaningful interactions: Conversations that feel human, not automated.
• Authentic stories: Narratives that reflect your brand’s values and resonate on a personal level.
• A sense of belonging: Communities where they can engage, share, and feel valued.

Perfecting your online branding means creating these experiences thoughtfully. Instead of spreading yourself thin, focus on platforms where your audience is most active and design content that aligns with their expectations. When done right, your brand will not just be seen, it will be remembered, trusted, and embraced.

And that's basically what online branding is all about!

Best Practices for Online Branding

Now that you know what online branding is, it's time to familiarize yourself with the best practices. These will help you plan and implement strategies for correctly branding your online business. Let's get started.

1. Focus on Authenticity and Storytelling

Authenticity is a key differentiator for brands, especially when it comes to online branding. Netizens are increasingly drawn to brands that share real stories and stand for something meaningful. 

Focus on authentic storytelling to build a strong online brand. Share behind-the-scenes content, showcase your team, and be open about your journey, challenges, and values. People want to connect with the humans behind the brand, so don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through.

Even though we are constantly told that humans' attention spans are decreasing, we have also come to realize that people tend to stay longer when they hear great and relatable stories. So make authentic storytelling the first step of building your online brand, and people will have the time to listen to your story.

2. Utilize Advanced SEO Tactics

What's the point of storytelling if people don't see your story in the first place?

And that's where advanced SEO tactics come in.

Search engines remain one of the primary ways people discover new brands online. Optimize your brand for voice search, use AI-driven keyword research, and ensure your website is fast and mobile-friendly. Structured data can also help search engines better understand your content, which improves your visibility. 

Apart from that, you'll also need to figure out which form of content works best for your business through your SEO effort. By staying on top of SEO trends, you can increase your brand’s discoverability and attract a steady stream of new visitors.

Some SEO tips that can help you with online branding:

• Build quality backlinks to boost domain authority.
• Focus on long-tail keywords for niche-specific traffic.
• Refresh old content to maintain relevance.
• Optimize meta descriptions to improve click-through rates.
• Use engaging visuals to enhance content appeal.

3. Leverage Short-Form Video and Interactive Content

Video content, particularly short-form videos, will continue to dominate in the upcoming years! If you aren't already, you need to jump into the game and start making videos to help people connect with your brand. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts are great for creating content that captures attention quickly. 

But what type of content should you make?

Well, consider creating tutorials, behind-the-scenes clips, or customer stories related to your niche in a fun and engaging way. You can also implement interactive content like polls, quizzes, and live Q&A sessions to enhance engagement and make your brand more memorable.

Some ideas that can help you make more out of the video content:

• Create product teasers to build anticipation.
• Make myth-busting videos to clear misconceptions.
• Jump on trending challenges or topics.
• Share day-in-the-life snippets for relatability.
• Feature user-generated content to boost engagement.

4. Build and Foster a Community

Creating a sense of community is a powerful way to build brand loyalty. Brands that focus on creating meaningful spaces for their audience are thriving. Whether through a Facebook Group, Discord channel, or community-building tools, building a community helps people feel connected and valued. 

Here are some things you can do to ensure engagement in your community:

• Facilitate meaningful discussions.
• Recognize and reward participation.
• Share value-driven content.
• Host regular events.
• Be responsive and approachable.

Your brand's growth will massively depend on the engagement you get from your users. The more satisfied you can keep them, the better word-of-mouth marketing your business will experience.

5. Use Personalization to Connect with Your Audience

Personalization is not just a trend – it’s an expectation. Your prospects want to interact with only those businesses they can relate to. Use data and tools to segment your audience and personalize your communications, whether targeted email campaigns, tailored recommendations, or personalized website experiences. 

Brands that make their audience feel seen and understood are more likely to build long-term relationships. Here are some tips for producing personalized content that will help people connect with your brand.

• Suggest products based on browsing history.
• Offer location-specific deals.
• Reference past user actions.
• Personalize returning visitors’ landing pages.
• Show dynamic, behavior-based content.

6. Partner with Influencers and Content Creators

Influencer marketing continues to be an effective strategy for reaching new audiences. But that's not all that influencers can help you with. They can help your business's online branding in more ways than you can imagine!

Influencers and content creators have a large loyal fanbase who consider their words as nothing less than a certificate. By building genuine partnerships with influencers whose values align with your brand, you can get those certificates for your brand too.

As a result, your brand will get exposure to a whole new group of people who consider your brand as a credible source for their needs. Here's something you should consider while partnering with an influencer:

• Align influencer values and voice with your brand’s message.
• Prioritize authenticity to maintain trust with the audience.
• Track performance metrics to measure the impact.
• Negotiate fair terms that benefit both parties.
• Plan long-term collaborations for deeper audience connection.

7. Stay Agile and Adapt to Trends

Given how competitive the digital sector is, you can't stick to any formula or strategy for too long. To ensure online visibility and stay ahead of others, you must monitor emerging trends, new platforms, and shifts in consumer behavior. 

Be willing to experiment with new formats, technologies, and strategies. The use of AI in every content creation process is now the new norm. But rather than following everyone else, be selective about where you need automation and where you need a personal touch. The combination of these will be the key to your online branding success.

Consider these steps to always be on the right track:

• Monitor emerging trends and platforms to identify new opportunities.
• Experiment with new content formats and technologies.
• Adjust strategies based on performance data and audience feedback.
• Combine AI-driven tools with personal touches for a more authentic brand presence.
• Embrace continuous learning to stay a step ahead of the competition.

8. Provide Consistent Value

At the core of every strong brand is consistently delivering value. Whether through a support channel, regular update releases, new products, etc., you must ensure your users feel valued consistently. Consistency builds trust, and over time, trust turns into loyalty and advocacy. These are the two must-haves if your goal is to build a strong online brand.

Here are a few things you can consider to ensure consistent value for your users:

• Offer timely and helpful customer support.
• Release regular product or feature updates.
• Share educational and entertaining content regularly.
• Gather user feedback and implement improvements.
• Provide exclusive perks or early access for loyal customers.

Examples of Online Branding Done Right

You know those big brands that we see everywhere? We see them everywhere, not because they are big brands but rather because they have their online branding game tight!

By examining how established brands have crafted their presence, we can learn what makes them stand out and apply those lessons to our own efforts.

Nike

Nike’s iconic “Just Do It” motto isn’t just a slogan; it’s a philosophy that resonates deeply with athletes and non-athletes alike. Their online branding is all about motivational storytelling, user-generated content, and close collaborations with top athletes, transforming each social post or campaign into a celebration of personal achievement and ambition.

What You Can Learn from Nike

• Storytelling matters—tap into emotions and shared aspirations.
• Partner with influencers who embody your brand’s values.
• Encourage user-generated content to build community engagement.

Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola’s branding evokes happiness, nostalgia, and shared moments. By focusing on uplifting campaigns, interactive social media content, and global traditions, it maintains a consistent, welcoming tone that makes people feel part of a larger community. That's the secret behind its strong online presence.

What You Can Learn from Coca-Cola

• Focus on positive emotions to create memorable brand associations.
• Inspire community involvement through shareable, feel-good content.
• Maintain a consistent tone that instantly reminds people of your brand.

Airbnb

Airbnb stands out with its online branding by showcasing authentic user experiences that inspire trust and earn credibility. Their platforms highlight unique accommodations, honest host-guest relationships, and community-driven travel stories. Their online branding strategy also includes rewarding regular customers with special discounts and recommendations!

What You Can Learn from Airbnb

• Highlight genuine customer experiences and stories.
• Prioritize trust and transparency to build credibility.
• Let your audience envision personal connections with your offerings.

Hubspot

Hubspot is the most relatable name in the digital world. And they haven't earned this name just by providing excellent service and impressive features! HubSpot stands out by delivering valuable, educational content. Beyond selling tools, they provide blogs, webinars, and guides that empower businesses. This knowledge-sharing approach not only earns trust but also encourages repeat visits and long-term loyalty.

What You Can Learn from HubSpot

• Offer educational resources that position you as a go-to expert.
• Solve problems first, promote products second.
• Establish credibility with consistently high-quality, informative content.

How WishListMember Can Help You with Online Branding

Building a thriving online brand means leveraging the right tools to create exclusive experiences and develop strong connections with your audience. If we are talking about connecting with users, WishList Member is your best bet to ensure that. It is a powerful WordPress plugin that helps manage memberships, protect content, and foster community engagement.

Here’s how you can use WishList Member to promote your business online by giving your users VIP treatment.

1. Create Exclusive Content for Members

One of the most effective ways to boost your brand's value is to offer exclusive content to your most dedicated followers. With WishList Member, you can create tiered membership levels, each offering different types of exclusive content – like premium blog posts, downloadable guides, video tutorials, or live events. 

This exclusivity not only adds value to your audience but also sets you apart as a trusted leader in your niche.

2. Build and Engage a Private Community

WishList Member makes it easy to create a personal and exclusive community, allowing you to engage directly with your audience. Offering a members-only area where people can connect, discuss, and share experiences is key to growing your brand. 

People crave meaningful engagement and being part of a group with shared interests. Fostering such a space can build trust and loyalty, strengthening your brand.

3. Manage Content Access Easily and Securely

Content protection is a key aspect of growing a brand, especially when you’re offering premium materials. WishList Member allows you to control who has access to your content, ensuring that only paying members or subscribers can view your valuable materials. This level of security reinforces the perception of exclusivity and encourages more people to subscribe, thereby increasing your brand reach and credibility.

4. Use Data to Refine Your Offerings

WishList Member provides insights into your membership activity, such as the best-performing content, the most popular membership levels, and the areas where users are most engaged. Using these insights, you can refine your offerings and ensure your content meets your audience’s needs. 

Analyzing this data allows you to improve continuously, making your brand more responsive and engaging.

5. Create Offers and Incentives for New Members

Growing your brand means continually expanding your audience, and WishList Member makes creating incentives for new members easy. You can set up limited-time offers, discounts, or trials to attract new users. By offering a taste of your exclusive content, you can entice potential members to subscribe fully, helping your brand grow.

Start Investing in Online Branding If You Haven't Already!

We hope this blog has helped you understand what online branding truly means and the best practices to make your brand stand out in the crowded digital space. By sharing actionable tips, highlighting key trends, and showcasing examples of brands nailing their online presence, we’ve tried to provide you with the knowledge and inspiration to elevate your branding strategy.

Remember, creating a strong online brand isn’t just about being present—it’s about being memorable, trusted, and relatable. Utilize the insights and examples we've shared in this blog to craft a brand that resonates with your audience and aligns with your business values.

To take your online branding to the next level, consider trying WishList Member. It’s designed to help you deliver exceptional user experiences, enhance community engagement, and protect your premium content, ensuring your brand stands out for all the right reasons.

Start investing in your online branding today because your brand deserves to be seen, trusted, and celebrated! 🎉

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How does it,

• Track your course progress?
• Design the content in an appealing way?
• Protect the content?
• Take the payment?

On top of these, it also provides a certificate as soon as you complete an online course. Doing all these manually would have been… “Impossible,”

But that's where WordPress LMS plugins come in, making it possible to run everything smoothly.

These tools can help you effortlessly design interactive online course platforms. They can also help you accept recurring payments and manage multi-level subscriptions. 

In this blog, we’ll talk in detail about WordPress LMS plugins and how you can get started with your LMS journey. 

The Benefits of WordPress LMS Plugins 

WordPress LMS plugins offer loads of benefits and make running an online learning platform way easier than it seems. Maybe that’s why so many people are now joining the online teaching trend.

Thanks to the LMS plugins, all the possible mammoth tasks will be simplified for you. Here are the key benefits of WordPress LMS plugins. 

User-Friendly Interface: These plugins are designed to be intuitive, allowing even those with minimal technical skills to create and manage courses easily.

Customizability: Various themes and plugins allow you to customize your online learning platform to match your brand and educational needs.

Cost-Effective: WordPress LMS plugins often cost a fraction of the cost of other LMS solutions, making them affordable for small – to medium-sized educational businesses.

Scalability: WordPress LMS plugins can scale with you as your student base grows, providing the necessary tools to handle increased traffic and content.

Integration Capabilities: These plugins can integrate with various third-party tools, such as payment gateways, CRM systems, and marketing automation platforms, enhancing functionality.

Content Management: They offer robust content management systems, allowing you to organize courses, lessons, and quizzes efficiently.

Analytics and Reporting: Most plugins provide comprehensive analytics and reporting features, helping you track student progress and improve course effectiveness.

Mobile Responsiveness: Many WordPress LMS plugins are designed to be mobile-friendly, ensuring students can access courses on various devices.

Community Building: These plugins often include features for forums, discussion boards, and social sharing, fostering a sense of community among learners.

Support and Documentation: Extensive support and documentation are available, making it easier to troubleshoot issues and maximize the potential of the LMS.

Things to Consider Before Finalizing Your WordPress LMS Plugin

Since there are many options available in the WordPress LMS plugins category, you need to be thoughtful before making the final decision. While most LMS plugins are great in one way or another, you need to find the one that fits your needs. 

That’s why we have done the research and compiled a list of the things you must consider to find the right plugin for you. 

Features and Functionality

To run an LMS platform smoothly, you’ll need a lot of support, and by support, we mean features. The number of features your chosen plugin offers is often the determining factor for many.

Features like course creation tools, multimedia support, quizzes, and student progress tracking are necessary for any LMS platform. In this competitive market, it's impossible to stand out in the competitive LMS market. Some WordPress LMS plugins offer even more advanced features.

Think about the features you’ll need to make your dreams a reality and check which LMS offers them all. Remember to consider functionality factors like integration capabilities, scalability, and mobile responsiveness as well to create a user-friendly LMS platform.

Ease of Use

If you choose a platform that’s so difficult to navigate that it makes you wonder whether learning to code would have been easier, you are already on the wrong path. 

The plugin should be easy to navigate and set up for you and for the students to go through the lessons. If users don’t find your platform easy to use, they’ll choose another platform in the blink of an eye. 

So, you need to choose an LMS plugin that’ll help you build courses that make the students not blink at all. Features like easy setup, a clean, intuitive interface, and drag-and-drop course builders are a must. 

Pricing and Budget

While many LMS plugins offer the facility to accommodate unlimited courses and students, some charge more as the number grows. You don’t want to end up having to pay more as your number grows. 

That’s why it's very important to be wise about your budget and which plugin will be the best value for money. Select a plugin that’s comparatively cheaper but offers the features you want. Also, make sure you don’t need to pay any extra as you host more courses or take on more students. 

Integration Capabilities

While your LMS plugin will offer all the features and functionalities needed to run the platform, you’ll often need more than that. How about a registration form? Or maybe contacting new users through emails? 

That’s where integration facilities come into play. 

Integration facilities with different payment gateways, CRM systems, email service providers, and tracking software can uplift your course marketing and tracking effort. This integration ensures a smooth workflow and enhances the functionality of your platform.  

Scalability

Consider the future growth of your online learning platform. The tool you choose should be able to handle an increasing number of users and courses without compromising performance. Look for plugins known for their scalability and check user reviews or case studies demonstrating their capability to grow your business.

If your LMS plugin can’t accommodate the constant growth in numbers, you’ll have to switch to another platform. And we are not getting into the casualties that’ll come with it. So, when you finalize a plugin, consider it for a long period. 

Working with the same platform will help your team members run the operational tasks smoothly. 

Reviews 

Looking out for reviews before finalizing the decision is helpful to ensure you are not making a wrong decision. You can check out reviews on the plugin's website, social media handles and even on some other niche websites. 

While going through the reviews, check what the existing users appreciate. If the existing users already appreciate the features you need, you can be more confident in your decision. 

Customer Support and Community 

Good customer support is vital for resolving issues quickly and effectively. Check if the plugin offers multiple support channels like email, live chat, or forums. A strong user community can also be a valuable resource for tips, troubleshooting, and shared experiences. Ensure there is robust support and an active community to rely on when needed.

If necessary, hire experts who can use the plugin you have selected. They can customize the platform and web pages so you can solely focus on the course materials. 

Security and Updates

Your LMS plugin must prioritize security to protect student data and course content. Regular updates are essential to fix bugs, enhance features, and improve security. Investigate the plugin’s update history and security measures. 

Ensure the WordPress LMS plugin you are going with offers regular updates. You’ll feel more confident storing your premium content and student’s information on their storage. 

4 Best WordPress LMS Plugins in 2024

Given the huge number of WordPress LMS plugins available, it might be confusing for you to select the best one as a beginner. Needless to say, keep the factors we mentioned in mind while making your decision. 

Yet, to narrow down the list for you, we’ve selected 4 of the bests in business. Let’s check them out. 

WishList Member

WishList Member is a powerful WordPress membership plugin designed to help you build and manage a successful online learning platform. It provides various features that make creating and maintaining your LMS easier than eating a piece of cake. 

It comes with a lot of useful features that can ensure you make the most out of your online courses. To name some of the features of WishList Member: 

• Create unlimited membership levels and manage them easily.
• Restrict access based on membership levels.
• Schedule the release of your course content over time.
• Supports various payment gateways like PayPal and Stripe.
• Connect with services like MailChimp, AWeber, and GetResponse.
• Detailed reports on students' activity, transactions, and content consumption.
• Easy set-up procedure that requires only a few clicks
• Points, quizzes, leaderboards and more gamification elements
• Enhance engagement with badges and certificates.

WishList Member pricing starts at $149/year for a single site license, making it an affordable option for those beginning with an LMS platform. Higher-tier plans are available for those needing more features and support.

MemberPress

MemberPress is one of the most popular WordPress membership plugins, helping thousands of membership and LMS sites grow. 

It offers extensive access control, content dripping, and seamless integration with various payment gateways, making it ideal for monetizing your courses and providing a structured learning experience.

But that’s not all that makes MemberPress unique. You can:

• Define and manage detailed access rules to protect your content, creating multiple membership tiers quickly.
• Schedule the release of course content over time, ensuring learners stay engaged and progress steadily.
• Supports numerous payment gateways, including PayPal and Stripe, for streamlined transactions.
• Get comprehensive reports on memberships, transactions, and learner progress, giving you insights to improve your courses.
• Set up this LMS tool very quickly within a few clicks.  
• Gamify your content to keep the users more engaged.

You can get started with MemberPress for as low as $179.50/Year. And to enjoy all the pro benefits, you’ll have to pay $499.50/Year.

MemberMouse

MemberMouse is a versatile and powerful WordPress plugin designed to help you create and manage membership sites. Using this LMS, you can protect your content, manage flexible membership levels, and integrate with other useful tools. 

Here’s what this plugin has to offer:

• Easy-to-use interface for setting up and managing memberships.
• Advanced content protection to control access to your courses.
• Integration with popular payment gateways like Stripe, PayPal, and Authorize.net.
• Flexible membership options, including free, trial, and paid memberships.
• Detailed reporting to track member activity and engagement.

You can get started with MemberMouse for $399/year. But, to access more features and a larger member base, the cost can increase to $2399/year.

AccessAlly

AccessAlly is a comprehensive LMS plugin for WordPress that combines membership management, course creation, and marketing automation. In addition to these features, this LMS provides an impressive community-building feature that most LMSs lack. 

To name some of the AccessAlly features:

• Create interactive and multimedia-rich courses with ease.
• Offer a variety of membership levels and subscription plans.
• Robust community features, including forums and member directories, to foster engagement and interaction.
• Seamless integration with CRM systems like Infusionsoft and ActiveCampaign.
• Advanced reporting and analytics to monitor learner progress and course effectiveness.

AccessAlly pricing starts at $99/month, with additional features and capabilities available at higher tiers.

WishList Member + Its Add-Ons = Best WordPress LMS Plugin Experience 

If we must declare a winner among the WordPress LMS plugins we’ve mentioned, we’ll go with the WishList Member. And before you ask why, let’s just say that the pre-installed add-ons take this plugin ahead of the competitors. 

On top of the basic features, here’s what WishList Member ad-ons bring to the table. 

Badges: This feature allows your members to earn different badges based on various actions throughout the platform. These badges can be displayed on the member's account in multiple combinations, encouraging engagement and motivation.

Points: This add-on does precisely what badges do but shows numbers instead. Points can be redeemed for access to protected content and higher membership levels, promoting active participation and rewarding progress.

CourseCure Courses: This add-on acts as a magic wand to organize and make your LMS courses more easily navigable. Your members progress through courses by working through a set of modules and lessons, which can be customized and restricted to selected members, ensuring a structured learning experience.

Quizzes: This tool helps you set up creative quizzes between your lessons or modules. Based on their quiz performance, members can be redirected to a page, added to, or removed from a membership level, enhancing learning assessment and personalization.

Campaign Refinery Integration: This allows WishList Members to add contacts to Campaign Refinery via tags, facilitating targeted email marketing and better member engagement through automated campaigns.

Zoom Integration: This add-on connects the WordPress site to a Zoom account, allowing you to take one-on-one sessions when necessary. It can also help you host live classes. 

Social Login: The social login add-on makes the login process smooth for your users. They can forget the headache of entering a username and password and rely on their Google or Social media accounts. 

Take Advantage of WordPress LMS Plugins To Build Your Dream LMS Platform

Creating a learning management system (LMS) might seem daunting, but with the right tools and guidance, it can be easy peasy lemon squeezy. We hope you found this blog helpful in learning about WordPress LMS plugins and which one might be right for you. 

Keep the factors we have mentioned in this blog in mind when selecting an LMS plugin for your courses. Don't let the fear of complexity hold you back; try out WishList Member and see how it can simplify and enhance your LMS creation process. Migrating to this LMS from other platforms is comparatively easier, too. 

If you’ve enjoyed this blog, subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on  Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn for more expert advice and tips to maximize your online course’s potential.

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The presence of digital platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook has made it a breeze for crafting hobbyists like you to turn your lovely craft into a profitable venture.

With these platforms, you can make direct sales and even go beyond by offering online tutorials, affiliate programs, and subscription services.

The possibilities are endless, from handmade jewelry and custom artwork to DIY home decor and personalized gifts. Many crafts, including yours, can be transformed into craft hobbies that make money.

In this article, we'll explore the top money-making craft hobbies for 2024, offering ideas, examples, and tips to help you turn your creative talents into a profitable business.

Why Monetize Your Craft Hobby?

You should monetize your craft hobby simply because it's a smart way to earn extra income.

After all, engaging in it costs you money. For example, if your craft hobby is baking, you need to spend some money purchasing baking ingredients and baking equipment if you don't already have them.

It only makes sense that while you spend a specific amount of money doing the craft hobby you love, you can recuperate that money back when you monetize it. 

Another reason is validation. Nothing beats knowing that people consider your craft hobby good enough to want to spend their hard-earned cash on. 

If anything, this implies that you are skilled at what you do, and it is appreciated not just by yourself but by others who deem it worthy to want to make a purchase.

Case Studies of Successful Crafters in the Past

Check out the case studies of two excellent female crafters who have made their mark and brought massive success to themselves simply because they were able to maximize the full potential of their craft hobbies:

Jane Field

Jane Field began her online gift company called Jonny's Sister in 2014 after she quit her overseas sales job with nothing else to turn to. Today, she has a successful gifts business with over ten apprentices under her. She recommends that other people wanting to set up a craft business ask for help when needed.

In her words: “You simply cannot be great at everything – it is much better to concentrate on what you are good at, rather than spreading yourself too thinly.”

Ayesha Curry

Ayesha Curry has made remarkable achievements as a crafter. Her journey from a DIY enthusiast to a successful entrepreneur inspires others who wish to follow in her footsteps. 

Known for selling home fittings, apparels, recipes and sharing self-care tips on her blog called Sweet July and YouTube channel, Ayesha leveraged her passion for cooking and crafting into a multifaceted career. In 2016, she released her first cookbook, The Seasoned Life, which became a bestseller, launching her into the culinary spotlight. 

Meanwhile, a survey conducted by Etsy revealed that 76% of their sellers consider their shops businesses, not just hobbies. Furthermore, many sellers have reported that their craft businesses provide significant financial support, with some even transitioning from traditional jobs to full-time crafting careers.

4 Ways to Make Money Through Your Craft Hobby

Now before we get into what craft hobbies can make you money, you need to know how you are going to do that. That's why we have done some research and put together a list of the best ways you can monetize your craft hobbies. Let's check them out.

1. Sell Your Products Directly

Direct sales involves selling your finished products directly to your customers without an intermediary. You can sell the products through your online store or on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. If you do not have an online store, you can easily build one using WordPress.

As you create your online store, employ the services of Pretty Links to build captivating product displays with attractive images. You can place the displays on your store's homepage or blog so that they become the first thing buyers see, enticing them to hit the “Buy Now” button as fast as possible.

One good thing about direct sales is that it can help you clear your inventory of creations. However, remember it is pretty labor intensive as you'll have to meet constant customer demands.

Nonetheless, you can make it work by making sure your price tag accurately reflects the hard work and creativity you have put in while you source for alternative means to earn extra income.

2. Make Money Through Online Courses

Creating online courses is a unique way to monetize your craft hobby. However, it requires a significant upfront investment of time, effort, and possibly money. You need to plan, record, edit, and package the course content and develop marketing strategies to attract students.

However, your efforts, time, and investment will be worth it once you successfully create quality content and get the courses up and running using CourseCure by WishList Member, which is a course builder that lets you create top-notch courses for your users.

If you are out of ideas or need to know the best ones to run with regarding your courses, you can take a cue from these profitable ideas to get you started.

3. Create a Subscription Services

Subscription services are recurring delivery services where subscribers receive a new craft box or kit regularly, such as monthly or quarterly. This kit typically contains all the materials and instructions your subscribers need for their craft hobby.

When preparing craft subscription boxes for your subscribers, avoid a one-size-fits-all approach, as this could discourage some subscribers from purchasing them, especially if they need materials and resources that align with their current crafting needs.

For example, you can tailor your subscription services so that there is something for everyone, from craft beginners down to experts who have been at it for a long time. You can also prepare interactive video lessons and downloadable resources and include them in your subscription service.

This way, your subscription offering stands out, and your subscribers will be motivated to patronize even more as they see the extra benefits they stand to gain. For more inspiration, check out our article on subscription business ideas.

4. Make Commissions Via Affiliate Marketing

Have you ever thought about how bloggers make a living simply by writing about their hobby or passion? Well, if their site isn't bogged down with annoying ads, they're probably using affiliate marketing.

Affiliate marketing is a performance-based marketing strategy where individuals (affiliates) promote a company's products or services and earn a commission for each sale generated through their unique affiliate link. It's a popular way for businesses to increase sales and for affiliates to earn money by recommending products they believe in.

Whether you write a blog about your hobby or create an online course or membership site, you can make money as an affiliate marketer. When crafting, consider the products you use and see if any major brands have an affiliate program.

For example, if your craft involves power tools, you could join the CPO DeWALT affiliate program and earn a commission each time someone makes a purchase via your link.

Tools like Pretty Links or ThirstyAffiliates can help you organize, brand, and shorten your affiliate links to make them more appealing and trustworthy to your site's visitors.

7 Best Craft Hobbies That Make Money

If you are a craft beginner and are looking to choose from a list of craft hobbies that make money, below are some that will surely tickle your fancy:

1. Embroidery

Embroidery is simply the art of using traditional hand-stitching methods or modern machines to design fabrics with threads or yarns and enhance their beauty by adding materials like beads, sequins, and pearls.

Successful crafters in this niche make money primarily by selling their finished products on online marketplaces like eBay, Etsy, and Amazon. However, they also make money through teaching and workshops, partnerships with fashion brands, and content creation.

As an embroidery crafter, you could decide to sell your finished product, such as a unique and beautifully designed embroidery cloth, online. 

You could also share your knowledge with others by setting up an online class to provide valuable tips and information or reaching out to select fashion brands you feel would love your designs and patterns to partner and collaborate with them.

Hopebroidery Box is a clear example of a successful subscription service with unique offerings for craft beginners looking to delve into embroidery.

They've monetized their craft hobby by setting up a subscription service where their members receive embroidery kits, access to courses and a book with insights into the craft.

If you decide to build your own embroidery craft business, you can replicate this with your unique products, such as home decor, holiday ornaments, and much more, to stand out. 

2. Dressmaking

Dressmaking is one of the best craft hobbies for making money, and for good reason. Virtually everyone wants to wear clothing that never goes out of style yet remains simple and minimalistic.

If you are skilled in this craft, you can make money by producing bespoke wear, selling ready-to-wear collections, performing freelance and contract work with fashion houses and film theaters, and selling sewing patterns and supplies.

An excellent example of a business focused on dressmaking as a craft is Love and Confuse. They sell handmade clothes with minimal fashion in mind, allowing customers to define their clothes rather than otherwise, expressing their unique personalities.

You could follow this route by creating your own dressmaking business, working for fashion organizations and brands, or, if you are a master at what you do, getting paid to share your knowledge via online courses.

3. Jewelry Making

Jewelry making is a delicate craft that requires specialized skill sets to yield the best possible results. It involves designing, creating, and assembling wearable decorative items such as necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, and brooches.

If jewelry making is your craft hobby, you can monetize it by selling directly on your site. It's a unique way to monetize your craft by offering diverse jewelry products, from handmade jewelry to jewelry supplies, stones, and designs.

Jewellers Academy is an excellent example of a successful business outfit offering diverse courses to its customers. What makes this business intriguing is that Jessica Rose, the founder, has a podcast section where she shares her latest tips and gives practical advice on launching and growing a jewelry business.

This is a great way to keep customers engaged and get them coming back for more. They would gain new insights to better themselves and have more reasons to make more purchases, ultimately boosting sales and profits for her. You can learn from this business and think of ways to set up your own with elements of your creativity and unique knowledge.

4. Woodwork

Woodworking is a hobby that involves creating items from wood using various tools and techniques. The craft hobby can range from simple projects like making shelves or picture frames to complex creations like furniture, sculptures, and intricate wood carvings.

Woodwork is quite viable as a craft hobby, as proven by some woodwork craft businesses that have made a name for themselves. A good example is Old World Kitchen. Look at how they successfully use branding to carve out a niche (pun intended) and make their business stand out.

They specialize in making handmade kitchen and dining utensils that can be passed down from generation to generation, ultimately withstanding the test of time. And that’s the beauty of hand-crafted items – they’re high-quality, beautiful objects that you simply won’t find in IKEA. Branding is an effective way you can differentiate your products from cheap, factory-produced alternatives.

Before you know, you are making custom orders, selling finished items, and offering repair services, ultimately turning your craft hobby into a serious business.

5. Pottery

Pottery is the art or craft of creating objects from clay and other ceramic materials through various shaping techniques, such as hand-building, wheel-throwing, or molding. These objects are typically fired at high temperatures in a kiln, which hardens the clay and transforms it into a durable, solid form.

If pottery is your passionate craft hobby, it is only fitting that you know the best ways to monetize it as compensation for the considerable amount of delicate skill needed to excel in it.

Businesses like The Ceramic School are thriving in this craft simply because they were able to curate a list of offerings and present them in a creative way that converted customers, making sales in the process.

You could set up a website and offer subscription services to your customers, create and deliver custom collections for specific customers, create quality courses to provide top-notch information or set up a YouTube channel to share your story and the history or culture behind your collections.

You could also create your own business or take on a feature from them, such as providing online pottery workshops, and build on that, ultimately setting up an income stream for yourself. 

6. Upholstery

Upholstery is the art of covering furniture with padding, springs, webbing, and fabric or leather to create a comfortable surface for people to sit or lie on. This process can be applied to various furniture items, including chairs, sofas, ottomans, and headboards.

The craft involves restoring old furniture and creating new pieces, requiring skills in sewing, fabric selection, and furniture construction.

Upholstery is quite different from most craft hobbies because it often requires special training for one to excel at it. It can sometimes be complicated compared to others, which you can learn by yourself or start without doing much.

Kim's Upholstery is a reliable online platform offering classes, workshops, libraries, and videos.

The business outfit gives out freebies such as videos, PDFs, leather resources, and tips, using them as lead magnets to draw customers and maintain a personal relationship with them by collecting their contact details, ultimately increasing the chances of return purchases. 

Kim also offers online classes and workshops, diversifying her monetization options and providing more opportunities for more sales. You could check out her online classes and freebies to gain ideas and insights on starting your own business and developing products you would like to offer.

7. Photography

Photography is one of the best craft hobbies for making money and among the easiest to learn. It only requires a few tools or equipment, making it all the more fun.

As a craft beginner, you can practice your photography skills by being creative with your angles and trying new things with your camera. Alternatively, you can register for a course to learn more about your craft. For example, you could register for the Beginners Photography Course at the School of Photography.

However, if you are a photography craft expert, you could sell your pictures by putting them behind a paywall. Take a cue from Sourced Co. They are a successful photography business that offers a stock photo membership for customers who want access to unique stock images for their business ideas.

They also offer a stock shop where customers can get single images for as low as $8. These services can serve as a source of inspiration for you, giving you ideas about how best to turn your craft hobby into a profitable venture.

Conclusion

Turning craft hobbies into lucrative ventures has never been more accessible. From selling finished products online and in local markets to offering custom orders, teaching workshops, and creating digital content, there are numerous ways to monetize your passion. 

Subscription services, creating online courses and affiliate marketing provide additional revenue streams that diversify your income and reduce the pressure of constant production. These channels allow you to explore new creative avenues, engage with a broader audience, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Now is the perfect time to take the first step towards monetizing your craft hobby. Choose a craft that resonates with you, whether pottery, woodworking, jewelry making, or another creative outlet, and explore one of the suggested channels. Start small, learn from the experience, and gradually expand your efforts.

Finally, share this blog with fellow crafting hobbyists and your social media peers, inspiring them to explore the exciting possibilities of turning their hobbies into profitable ventures. Let's build a community of passionate crafters who support and uplift each other!

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A well-structured curriculum will help you provide a clear roadmap to your students. If the curriculum is easily understandable, it will benefit both the students and the course instructors.

However, you need to know the right strategies and have the right tools to create the best curriculum for your students. 

That’s why in this blog, we’ll talk about the best strategies for building a curriculum and what tools you might need. 

Understanding the Basics of Building a Course Curriculum

The curriculum is a course's fundamental blueprint. It shows teachers and students how to reach certain educational goals. A course curriculum has various fundamental aspects, such as learning goals, content, teaching methods, and interactive content. 

Course content refers to the material that will be covered, while instructional methods detail the approaches and techniques teachers will use to facilitate learning. Knowing these details helps students decide whether a course is the right one. 

But how exactly does a well-built curriculum help the students?

Well, your LMS can benefit from a well-structured curriculum in many ways. To name a few:

• Streamlines the educational process for your students by providing clear milestones and learning paths, enhancing learning efficiency.
• Keeps the students actively involved and motivated through interactive elements and diverse teaching methods, improving engagement.
• Allows continuous assessment and feedback, helping your students monitor their progress and areas for improvement.
• Adapts to different learning styles and paces, ensuring all students find the course accessible and challenging.
• Aligns course objectives with industry standards and career expectations, making your students more competitive in the job market.

Best Practices of Building a Course Curriculum

Given how beneficial well-structured curriculums are, there’s no option but to create one for your LMS to ensure more growth for your students and platform. But, you might feel overwhelmed about where to start and what to keep in order to build the best curriculum. 

To make your job easy, we've compiled a list of things you must consider while creating the course curriculum. Here’s what we've found. 

Analyze Learner Needs

When building courses or curriculums, the first thing you should focus on is analyzing learner needs. The better you know your learners, the more precisely your curriculum will align with their expectations. 

As a result, the learning process will be easier for the students. On top of that, overall engagement and course completion will skyrocket, making your lMS a more successful platform. But that’s not going to happen overnight. 

If you don’t know what your students want or what might benefit them, here’s what you can do to learn more about their needs. 

• Conduct surveys and feedback sessions to gather direct input from students about their preferences and challenges.
• Analyze course performance data to identify patterns in engagement and areas of difficulty.
• Organize focus groups with diverse students to gain deeper qualitative insights.
• Review industry trends and job market requirements to align curriculum with real-world expectations.
• Implement trial periods for new courses to gather preliminary feedback and make adjustments before full launch.

Define Learning Objectives and Outcomes

Being able to understand the learning objectives and outcomes is a really important factor for the students who are considering joining your course. It helps the students determine how this course is going to help them. 

That’s why you need to state SMART objectives in your curriculum. And by smart, we mean specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely. If each course curriculum is set considering the student's benefits, you’ll see better engagement from your students. 

Here’s something you can do to make your learning objectives and outcomes more clear: 

• Use the SMART framework to create specific and measurable objectives.
• Develop objectives that reflect both knowledge acquisition and skill development.
• Ensure objectives are aligned with broader educational goals or standards.

Choose the Right Content and Materials

If your course curriculum does not have the right content and materials, it will be difficult for the students to learn. Your content needs to be informative, relevant, and accurate to ensure student engagement. 

Just having the right content in your curriculum is often not enough! That’s where materials come in. Say you teach about video editing. If your course curriculum has a section where students can easily download the necessary tools, it’ll make their job easier. 

Here are some tips on how to choose the right content and materials for your course curriculum: 

• Evaluate content for accuracy, relevance, and engagement potential.
• Incorporate a variety of materials, including textbooks, digital resources, and interactive tools.
• Regularly update materials to reflect the latest information and educational practices.

Design the Course Structure

Creating an appealing course structure means organizing activities and material in a way that makes sense and helps students learn easily. You should also focus on ensuring that students have a variety of learning experiences to keep them interested and involved.

Here are some things you can keep in mind while designing the structure: 

• Plan modules that logically progress from simple to complex topics.
• Ensure each module builds on the knowledge of the previous one.
• Balance theoretical content with practical activities to enhance learning.

Incorporation of Interacting Materials 

Regardless of the great content in your course curriculum, students will get bored if there’s a lack of interactive materials. Also, learners getting bored is by no means a good sign for any LMS. 

But that can easily be prevented if your curriculum includes the right elements, such as quizzes, badges, points, etc., to give the students a break from the long, dreadful learning materials. 

Apart from these, here are a couple of ideas that might be helpful in order to make your course curriculum more interactive. 

• Implement active learning strategies like problem-based learning and case studies.
• Use technology to create interactive and collaborative learning environments.

Implement Assessment and Feedback Mechanisms

While online courses offer many benefits, they lack one thing and one thing only. That’s the personal one-to-one feedback and instant assessments. Lately, with the right tools in place, you can implement instant assessments and feedback for your learners.

These feedbacks and assessments help students clear each module with full confidence, without questions or confusion. Not sure how you can implement this in your curriculum? 

Well, here are some ideas: 

• Develop a variety of assessment methods to cater to different learning styles.
• Use formative assessments for ongoing feedback during the course.
• Incorporate peer and self-assessment opportunities to foster reflective learning practices.

Building a Curriculum for Your LMS Using WishList Member: 4 Easy Steps 

Needless to say, by now, you already know how important building a curriculum is to ensure student success. Yet, many online tutors struggle with building the perfect curriculum as their LMS platform cannot do what they want. 

That’s where WishList Member comes in. 

This WordPress plugin can help you build a course just the way you want, with as many modules, course sections, and interactive materials as you want. And that’s not it. This plugin will help you accept recurring course payments in different ways as well. 

But before we get into making money, let’s build a course curriculum for your students. 

Step 1: Download and Install WishList Member

First thing first, go to WishList Member plans and choose the perfect plan for you. Then, go to your WordPress dashboard and click on Plugins. On the next page, click on Add New Plugin.

Then, hit the Upload Plugin button and choose the zip file you downloaded from the WishList Member website. 

Step 2: Activate The Necessary Add-ons

Having multiple add-ons for various purposes is the reason why WishList Member is able to offer so many different features. And that’s why you should check out and actiavete the necessary add-ons for you. 

To do that, click on Add-ons from the WishList Member menu and simply activate the ones you want. If not anything, make sure to activate the Coursecure Courses, Points, Badges, and Quizzes add-ons. 

Step 3: Create Course Curriculum structure

Once you've activated the necessary add-ons, it’s time to create the curriculum structure for your course. WishList Member lets you create as many modules as you want with the help of the CourseCure Courses add-on. 

Go back to the WordPress homepage and click on the Courses option from the CourseCure menu. Give a suitable title and click Apply.

On the next page, you’ll be able to add as many modules and lessons as you want to your courses. 

You can even design each lesson using the drag-and-drop builder WishList Member offers. Play around with all the tools until your curriculum looks exactly how you want it. 

Step 4: Add Interactive Materials

A course curriculum is never 100% ready until you add interactive materials to your course. And this is where WishList Member Shines. Let’s start by adding quizzes. You can either go to the Quizes menu and add quizzes. 

Or add quizzes as you build your curriculum. 

Then, you've the option to set up points for your users to receive after successfully completing a certain task. This can be completing a module, quiz, or maybe a comment. 

Here are the triggers based on which you can give out points. 

Now that your students can earn points, how are they going to spend those? They can redeem badges, free courses, etc., using the points. 

You can create badges anyway to give out to students upon completion of certain activities. To do that, click on badges, then hit the + sign.

You can give out badges based on the following triggers. 

Now that your course curriculum contains enough interactive elements, you’re more likely to receive better engagement and course completion. 

Make Your Students’ Life Easy With Well Structured Course Curriculums! 

We hope you found this blog helpful and enlightening about the steps you need to follow to create the best course curriculum for your students. Always consider your learners' opinions and what might be beneficial for them while creating your course curriculum. 

If you feel like your current LMS is limiting your creative freedom when it comes to building a curriculum, give WishList Member a try. This plugin can help you create course curriculums that are actually beneficial for the students. 

Don’t forget to reach out to us if you've any questions or would like to share any ideas that we should include in this blog.

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Ever feel like you're on a never-ending treadmill trying to keep your business's cash flow steady? Well, you're not alone.

Let's face it, every entrepreneur dreams of a business model that guarantees a steady stream of income, time and again.

The thrill of making money, month after month, from a customer who only clicked the “buy” button once, although simplistic in its approach, is the very essence of recurring revenue business models.

But how much do we really know about them? More importantly, how can entrepreneurs identify the right recurring revenue business for them amongst a myriad of choices?

We're going to explore the world of recurring revenue, a true lifeline for entrepreneurs going through raging financial waters.

Inject your business with a dose of predictability and stability, thanks to some fresh, innovative ideas that keep the cash flowing month after month.

We're not just throwing ideas at the wall to see what sticks; we're backing everything up with solid stats and real-deal insights that you can actually use, especially if you're into tools like WishList Member that make managing memberships a breeze.

So, grab a cup of coffee, and let's get down to business, shall we?

What Is Recurring Revenue?

Recurring revenue is a business model where customers pay periodically for continued access to a product or service. This helps create a predictable and stable stream of income for the company.

Unlike one-off transactions, this model relies on periodic payments for continuous access to products or services, providing a predictable and stable financial forecast that is highly coveted in the business world.

Benefits of the Recurring Revenue Business Model

Why go for a recurring revenue model, you ask? Well, it's a steady paycheck for your business. This model lets you breathe easier with its consistent cash flow, making it a breeze to plan out your finances and where to put your resources next.

The draw of recurring revenue lies in its stability and predictability, which facilitates better financial planning and resource allocation.

But there's more to it than just the money side of things. This model enables you to build a community of loyal fans who stick around for the long haul, which is pretty awesome for keeping your business solid and growing.

Plus, when customers hang around longer, they end up contributing more to your business over time. It's a win-win, really – your customers get continuous value, and your business gets a boost in stability and growth.

Let's break down the perks of jumping on the recurring revenue bandwagon.

Steady Money in the Bank

Money flows into your business like clockwork every month. Sounds good, right? That's the beauty of recurring revenue. It smooths out the bumpy ride of unpredictable sales and lets you sleep a little easier at night, knowing what's coming in.

Planning Without the Guesswork

With this model, you can pretty much ditch the crystal ball. Your income is more predictable, so you can plan your budget and where to splash the cash next, whether that's on growing your team, a new product line, or sprucing up customer service.

Building a Fan Club

This is all about turning customers into loyal fans who stick around because they love what you're doing. It's more than just transactions; it's about building relationships and giving them reasons to stay subscribed.

Customers Stick Around Longer

When customers hang with you for the long haul, they contribute more to your business over time.

Loyal customers are pure gold for any brand. Folks who keep coming back tend to spend more cash over time. In fact, Bain & Company found that, on average, customers splurge 67% more in their 31st to 36th months with a brand than they do in their first six months. How's that for customer loyalty paying off?

Keeping the Sales Engine Humming

With a base of loyal subscribers, you're not always in the trenches looking for new customers. Instead, you can focus on keeping your current crowd happy and engaged, which is a whole lot less stressful.

More Chances to Sell

Once you've got a good thing going with your customers, introducing new products or special offers becomes a breeze.

Creating a Community Vibe

There's something special about being part of a group that shares your interests. Recurring revenue models often have this community feel, whether it's through exclusive forums or content, making everyone feel right at home.

Staying on Your Toes

The great thing about this model is that it keeps you in tune with what your customers want, thanks to regular feedback. This means you can be quick to adapt and innovate, keeping your business fresh and relevant.

Embracing these benefits can help your business build a more durable foundation, not just growing but thriving with a community of engaged customers cheering you on.

Challenges of the Recurring Revenue Business Model

Every rose has its thorn, and despite its many benefits, the recurring revenue business model isn't exempt from this rule of thumb.

It comes with its share of challenges. But fret not! As an entrepreneur, your skill lies in turning these stumbling blocks into stepping stones.

Navigating the recurring revenue landscape isn't all smooth sailing – there are a few bumps along the road. Let's chat about some of the hurdles you might face:

Hanging Onto Your Customers

Customer retention is all the more important with the recurring revenue model. After all, it only works if your subscribers want to stick around for more.

You've got to keep showing them they made the right choice by always offering great value, coming up with new ideas, taking care of them, and always giving a bit more than expected.

On the flip side, keep an eye on churn rate and engagement, and intervene as quickly as possible if you notice things going south.

Keeping Things Fresh

Ever notice how quickly we get bored of the “same old”? Your subscribers feel the same.

Relying heavily on one product or service could jeopardize your business. Think about broadening your offer portfolio to attract a wider audience or fulfill your current clients' needs better. Staying innovative and refreshing your offerings is crucial to keep your audience hooked and attract new faces.

Payment Failures

Expired cards, insufficient funds, or technical woes could lead to failed payments – a harsh reality in this business model. To lighten this burden, implementing a robust billing system that handles payment issues, sends payment reminders, and updates credentials smoothly could be invaluable.

And it's extremely convenient that WishList Member has Stripe integration. Stripe is a popular payment processing platform, offers a seamless way for membership sites to handle subscriptions and payments, ensuring a smooth and secure transaction experience for both the site owners and their members.

Convincing Commitment-Shy Customers

With the recurring revenue model, the aim is to get your customers in it for the long haul. Compared to the one-time payment model, you've got your work cut out for you. You'll need to go the extra mile to demonstrate the undeniable value and benefits of your product or service.

Work on refining your sales and marketing techniques to encourage repeat engagements. You might also want to consider adopting a free trial or a money-back guarantee to encourage hesitant first-time customers to take the leap.

Value, Value, Value

It's all about the bang for their buck. Your customers need to feel like they're getting their money's worth, month after month. This means having a solid value proposition that resonates with their needs and desires.

Consistency is King

Delivering top-notch quality and service can't just be a one-time thing; it needs to be consistent. Your subscribers are trusting you to maintain a high standard, and any slip-ups can send them looking elsewhere.

The Feedback Loop

Listening to your customers sounds simple, but it's an art. Keeping an open line for feedback—and actually acting on it—is crucial for improvement and staying in tune with what your audience really wants.

Tech and Tools

The right infrastructure is vital to manage subscriptions smoothly. This means investing in good tech and tools to keep the backend running without a hitch, ensuring a seamless experience for your customers.

Facing these challenges head-on with a mix of empathy, innovation, and a relentless drive for excellence can help you turn potential obstacles into opportunities for growth and deeper customer connections.

Market Saturation and the “Subscription Fatigue” Phenomenon

Let's be real: the market's pretty crowded with subscription and membership models. Everywhere you look, there's a new subscription box or member-only platform popping up.

And yes, people are starting to feel a bit overwhelmed by all the options—hello, “subscription fatigue.” So, when you're diving into your market research, really dig into what your competitors are charging.

Even more importantly, have some heart-to-hearts with potential customers. Find out straight from the horse's mouth if they're into the idea of ongoing payments or if they're leaning more towards a one-and-done deal.

Price Points Set in Stone?

Here's the kicker with locking in a price when someone signs up: they kind of expect that to be their price for the long haul. It's like an unspoken promise.

So, if down the line you're thinking of bumping up prices or switching up what you offer, brace yourself. You might just find your inbox filled with some “passionate” feedback from your most loyal subscribers. It's a tricky dance, figuring out how to evolve your business without stepping on too many toes.

10 Cutting-Edge Recurring Revenue Business Ideas

Staying ahead means embracing innovative recurring revenue models that not only fuel growth but also create lasting streams of income.

Let's explore 10 cutting-edge recurring revenue business ideas that you can consider: 

1. Online Learning Platforms

Whether you're itching to master digital marketing, whip up a culinary storm, or code the next big app, there's a course for that. And the beauty of it? You get access to this smorgasbord of courses with just one subscription.

Think educational platforms such as Membership Academy (Membership Geeks) or Udemy that sell subscriptions to their course library, creating a consistent income stream.

But here's where it gets even better. This isn't a static library where books gather dust. These platforms are buzzing hives of activity, constantly updating with fresh courses to keep up with the ever-evolving world.

What makes this a win-win is the consistent income stream it creates for the folks running these platforms.

For learners, it's an investment in themselves, unlocking potential they might not have known they had. And for the creators, it's a sustainable model that rewards them for their passion for sharing knowledge.

Offer courses or access to exclusive educational content in niche subjects and use a platform like WishList Member's CourseCure to manage memberships and content access seamlessly.

Plus, WishList has created a Zoom integration, making it easier than ever to sell Zoom calls and live classes for members of your course or membership site.

2. Personalized Curation

So, have you ever wished you had a friend who just got your style and would pick out the perfect outfits for you? Well, that's pretty much the magic behind personalized content curation services like Stitch Fix.

Stitch Fix simplifies the shopping experience by sending personalized clothing picks directly to customers, matching their style and preferences.

Imagine opening a box to find clothes picked out just for you. The clothes fit your taste, size, and lifestyle to a T. Isn't that just like having a personal stylist at your disposal? Convenient, huh?

And here's the kicker – this isn't a one-off deal. With a subscription, this personalized shopping spree lands on your doorstep regularly, keeping your wardrobe fresh and exciting. It's a fantastic way to discover new styles and pieces that you might not have picked up off the rack yourself.

But it's not just about clothes. This model is popping up in all sorts of industries, from beauty products to gourmet foods, offering a curated experience that's as unique as you are.

Personalized curation is a promising business idea because it taps into the desire for tailored experiences, offering customers unique, customized selections that match their individual preferences.

It conveys the message of: “Hey, we get you.” And that works! These all add up to a positive buying experience that increases customer satisfaction and loyalty.

3. Special Interest Magazines

Special interest magazines offer a golden opportunity for entrepreneurs to connect deeply with niche audiences. From tech aficionados to wellness enthusiasts, every niche presents a chance to deliver content that resonates on a personal level with readers across the globe.

Vegan Food and Living is an example of a publication that offers an online subscription. Members access exclusive content, get discounts on their online shop, and access to their online community.

The key to success in this arena lies in pinpointing a niche you're knowledgeable about and pouring your energy into providing timely, high-quality content.

Consistency is your ally, ensuring a steady stream of articles, interviews, and insights that keep your audience engaged and looking forward to more.

But it's not just about pushing out content. The real magic happens when you cultivate community engagement.

An exclusive online forum can be a powerful tool, transforming your magazine from a one-way channel into a vibrant community hub.

Here, readers connect not just with your content but with each other, sharing ideas, sparking discussions, and forging a sense of belonging around shared interests.

4. Niche Subscription Boxes

Here's how this works: every month, a little box of joy lands on your doorstep, packed with goodies tailored just for you and your unique tastes. That's the heart and soul of niche subscription boxes.

Let's say you're a pet parent, and seeing your furry friend's tail wag is your daily dose of happiness. There's a box for that too! Pet toy subscription boxes, such as the ones from BarkBox come loaded with toys, treats, and even grooming goodies that'll keep your pet pampered and entertained. It's a win-win: your pet gets a heap of new toys to destroy, and you get to discover new products that might just become their new favorite.

TBR is another example of a niche subscription service. It is a haven for book lovers, offering a selection of new and early-release titles each month. Subscribers can choose which book they want to receive, making it a personalized reading experience.

If you have a niche hobby, or you're running a niche brick and mortar store, consider how you can monetize it online and offer convenience to your customers with a subscription box service.

5. Craft and DIY Clubs

Ever get that itch to create something with your own two hands, but then you're like, “Where do I even start?” That's where Craft and DIY Clubs come in. These clubs are all about sending you a box full of potential each month, packed with everything you need to tackle a fun, creative project.

Adults & Crafts is a gem of a club is all about getting those creative juices flowing, no matter your skill level. From wood burning to clock making, they've got a diverse range of projects.

The Crafter takes it up a notch by not only providing cool projects like weaving, pottery, or even macramé but also by giving you access to online workshops led by expert makers.

For businesses, this is a chance to tap into the booming DIY market and foster a community of enthusiastic makers. And for the rest of us? It's an invitation to roll up our sleeves, get a little messy, and create something to be proud of.

6. Fitness and Wellness Sites

Our living rooms have turned into offices, gyms, and everything in between. And this sets the stage for how fitness and wellness subscriptions have become our new best friends.

They're like having a personal trainer and wellness coach right in your pocket, ready to jump into action whether you're up for an early morning yoga session or a late-night meditation to wind down.

These sites are genius because they adapt to you. Not a fan of running? No problem. More into HIIT or need some mindfulness exercises to tackle stress? They've got you covered. It's all about making fitness and wellness fit into your life, not the other way around.

And with subscriptions, you get this personalized guidance continuously, keeping you motivated and on track with your health goals.

Looking for inspiration for your own subscription business?

Check out online fitness coaching site SisterSquad. They offer a range of programs and online resources to help members reach their fitness goals.

Nutritionist website SexyFit Nutrition Challenge connects members through their exclusive online portal, so customers get the support and encouragement of a whole community of like-minded members who share their goals and can offer advice.

Think about how you can use your site to offer a dynamic and enriching experience for your subscribers. Add community, a personalized service, and access to other exclusive resources to your programs to keep them engaged, fulfilled, and coming back for more.

7. Private Podcasts and Webinar Series

Private podcasts and webinar series are catching fire in the digital landscape, and here's why they're such a hit: they offer an exclusive pass into a world of niche expertise and community.

These platforms offer a cozy corner of the internet where experts and enthusiasts dive deep into niche topics, from the latest tech trends to personal growth journeys, all in a format that feels like a personal conversation or a masterclass just for you.

People love feeling like part of an inner circle, and these platforms deliver just that, along with the flexibility to tune in from anywhere, anytime.

The beauty of these private channels is the exclusivity and intimacy they offer.

If you think that you have the goods to start a private podcast yourself, you can start with a tool like Buzzsprout to host it. Another tool, Fusebox has your back with some super user-friendly hosting that'll make your podcasting journey easy as pie.

8. Digital Marketing Resource Hub

Ever felt like the digital marketing world is a great, ever-changing jungle? Well, think of a digital marketing resource hub as your trusty map and compass.

This is where you find all the tools, templates, and top-notch resources you need, neatly packed in one spot. Whether you're crafting your next viral campaign or just trying to figure out the latest SEO wizardry, these hubs have got you covered.

Create a go-to repository of marketing tools, templates, and resources, regularly updated to reflect the latest trends and strategies.

The real cherry on top is how these hubs stay fresh, constantly updating with the latest gadgets and wisdom to keep you ahead of the curve.

HubSpot is a giant in the game. From in-depth guides on inbound marketing to free templates for just about everything (think email campaigns, content planning, etc.), HubSpot is a goldmine for marketers looking to up their game.

You can also look at something like Moz. Their unique value proposition (UVP) is in breaking down the complexities of search engine optimization into bite-sized, understandable pieces. They offer an assortment of tools, webinars, and how-to guides, getting to the top of Google's search results suddenly doesn't seem so daunting.

Use brands like HubSpot or Moz as your blueprints in identifying how to provide a convenient experience for your customers, in what would otherwise be a complex and technical process.

9. Tech Support Services

Are you a tech wizard who thrives on solving puzzles and troubleshooting? Do you find joy in decoding software glitches and hardware hiccups, making technology work seamlessly?

If you light up at the chance to guide others through their tech troubles with patience and expertise, then you have what it takes to offer your tech support services online.

Computers have a knack for throwing tantrums right before a big deadline, and people are willing to pay (and pay well) for a quick and easy fix.

Probably the most well-known example is Best Buy's Geek Squad. They're on hand to offer their customers everything from setting up the home office to rescuing PCs from the latest virus.

With their membership plans, their customers get the peace of mind that help is just a call or click away.

The key to offering a successful tech support service is three-fold:

1. Start building a library of customer-friendly online docs and video tutorials (behind a paywall) for members to access as a first port of call.
2. Make sure someone is on hand around the clock and scale up your team as needed to keep resolution times to a minimum.
3. Offer a range of ways for members to reach you – chat, phone, video call, email – so you can help them in the way they feel most comfortable.

10. Virtual Event Access

The events of 2020 transformed how we connect, and share knowledge. If you've ever considered leveraging this shift by hosting your own virtual events, now is the time to make that a reality.

Virtual event platforms have turned seminars, workshops, and conferences into experiences that can be accessed from anywhere in the world, breaking down geographical and logistical barriers to participation.

This is your chance to carve out a niche in the booming digital networking space.

Eventbrite, a leader in event management, has successfully expanded its offerings to include virtual events, catering to a diverse range of interests and industries.

This example shows the potential for virtual event platforms to reach a global audience, offering everything from intimate webinars to expansive digital conferences with ease.

Choose a membership platform with a solid webinar integration and forum and conferencing capabilities to offer a robust service and build a thriving community.

By stepping into the virtual event space, you're not just offering access to information and networking; you're creating a community that transcends physical boundaries.

Build A Recurring Revenue Business: What Does It Take?

The world of recurring revenue businesses has endless possibilities. If you're gearing up to launch a membership or subscription-based venture, you're in luck because the toolbox to help you get there is overflowing with goodies.

Now, let's talk about setting up shop in the WordPress universe. It's pretty much a goldmine for anyone keen on crafting a business around content, community vibes, or online courses.

To kick things off with WordPress, you'll need a few essentials in your toolkit:

• Choose the Right WordPress Host: First off, you'll need a solid WordPress hosting solution that's up to the task. Since we're talking about a business that'll keep growing (because, hey, that's the plan!), you need a host that can scale with you and handle the demands of a subscription model.
  
  
• Pick a Stylish and Functional Theme: Your website's look and feel matter – a lot. Grab a theme that not only looks the part but is easy to navigate. Your members should feel right at home from the get-go.
  
  
• Membership Plugin Magic with WishList Member: Here's where it gets exciting. To glue all the pieces together – like guarding your premium content, managing those all-important recurring payments, and keeping track of your growing community – you'll want a top-notch membership plugin.
  
  When it comes to membership plugins, WishList Member is where it's at. Designed with the needs of aspiring and established entrepreneurs in mind, it's your go-to for turning that dream of a recurring revenue business into a living, breathing (and thriving!) reality.
  
  So, why not take a closer look at all the goodies WishList Member has to offer? Your future self will thank you.

It's A Wrap!

And there you have it! We've covered quite a bit, from the nuts and bolts of what recurring revenue really means to the ins and outs, and even sprinkled in some juicy business ideas to get your gears turning.

Hopefully, you're walking away with a clearer vision of how recurring revenue could transform your business, armed with the knowledge of its benefits and challenges.

And with those 10 ideas we shared, we're betting you're already brainstorming how to kickstart your own membership or subscription gig.

Got any thoughts, questions, or lightbulb moments you want to chat about after reading this? Drop us a comment right here – we'd love to hear from you.

Check us out on our socials! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn for more tips and best practices to make the most of your new subscription business.

Price and features are just the tip of the iceberg. 

To make a smart choice, you need to look beyond the immediately obvious and consider factors like compatibility, user experience, and scalability. 

This post will uncover these often overlooked aspects, helping you make a decision that truly supports your needs and ensures a smooth, successful implementation.

1. Compatibility and Integration

When choosing a WordPress LMS plugin, compatibility with your existing systems is crucial. 

A plugin that seamlessly integrates with your current tools can save you time, reduce headaches, and ensure a smoother workflow. This is where WishList Member shines.

WishList Member boasts over 80 inbuilt integrations, covering a wide range of tools and platforms. 

This means you can connect it effortlessly with your current systems, enhancing your LMS capabilities without the hassle of technical difficulties. 

Additionally, the WishList Member team supports these integrations, providing you with peace of mind and reliable support.

Moreover, WishList Member connects with Zapier and Uncanny Automator, opening the door to thousands more apps and popular platforms. 

This flexibility makes it one of the most adaptable LMS options available, ensuring that your LMS can grow and evolve alongside your needs.

2. User Experience (UX) is Key

You want to choose an LMS Plugin that will make your site powerful, intuitive, and enjoyable to use. 

Here’s how WishList Member excels in providing a top-notch UX:

1. Allows One Tap Social Media Login: With WishList Member, you can offer your members to option to log in via Google, Facebook, Twitter, and WordPress, making access quick and easy. 

2. Supports Gamification: WishList Member supports gamification features like points, badges, and leaderboards. These add-ons reward users for completing lessons, modules, or quizzes, and for engaging with site content, boosting motivation and retention.

3. Mobile Friendly and Responsive: WishList Member ensures all your content is fully responsive, making it accessible and functional on any device, from desktops to smartphones.

By focusing on these UX-enhancing features, WishList Member ensures an engaging, user-friendly experience for both administrators and learners.

Learn more about WishList Member’s powerful UX features. 

3. Scalability

As your educational platform or corporate training program grows, scalability becomes a critical factor. 

You need an LMS that can expand alongside your increasing user base and diverse course offerings without compromising performance. 

Scalability ensures that your LMS can handle more users, content, and functionalities as your needs evolve.

WishList Member is designed with scalability in mind.

One of its standout features is the ability to create unlimited courses using its Courses add-on. 

This means you can continuously expand your course library without worrying about hitting any limits. 

Whether you're adding new training modules for employees or expanding your online education platform, WishList Member can grow with you.

In addition to unlimited courses, WishList Member’s robust architecture supports a large number of users, ensuring smooth performance even as your user base expands.

This makes it an ideal choice for small to medium-sized educational institutions and corporate trainers who anticipate growth.

With WishList Member, you can confidently scale your LMS to meet the demands of your growing audience.

4. Good Support and Thorough Documentation

Good documentation is the backbone of any reliable LMS plugin. Comprehensive and clear documentation empowers users to configure and manage their LMS independently, reducing the need to frequently contact support. 

This self-sufficiency saves time and boosts confidence in using the platform. A well-documented LMS should offer detailed guides, how-to articles, and troubleshooting tips that cater to both beginners and advanced users.

However, there will be times when you need extra help or encounter a niche issue that requires expert guidance. 

In these instances, having access to an excellent customer support team is invaluable. A responsive and knowledgeable support team can provide timely solutions, ensuring that your LMS runs smoothly and efficiently.

WishList Member excels in both these areas. It offers extensive support documentation that covers a wide range of topics, from initial setup to advanced configurations. 

You can find detailed guides, video tutorials, and FAQs on the support page, ensuring you have all the resources you need at your fingertips.

When it comes to customer support, WishList Member goes above and beyond. Their support team is known for being responsive, helpful, and knowledgeable. 

Here’s what some customers have to say:

“I want to thank you. I tried to do the membership site using WishList Member myself and found it was too much for me to handle, but because of the list you provided of WishList Member Certified web designers, my site is up and going”​

• Tiffany Godfrey

“Customer support has been very helpful and responsive, and they update regularly – often incorporating customers’ concerns/questions into the next update. Overall, excellent and easy-to-use membership site software”​ 

• Kenny Handleman

With WishList Member, you get the best of both worlds: extensive documentation that empowers you to manage the LMS independently and top-notch support for those times when you need a helping hand.

5. LMS Plugin Customization Options

Customization is a vital aspect of any LMS plugin, allowing you to design the platform to your preference and to meet your specific needs, providing a unique, dynamic learning experience. 

However, not all LMS plugins offer the same level of flexibility, and some may come with constraints that limit your ability to fully customize your courses and content.

WishList Member stands out in its ability to manage and meet diverse customization needs effectively. 

Here’s how it does it:

1. Gutenberg Block Integration: WishList Member leverages WordPress Gutenberg blocks for its Courses add-on. This means you can easily insert WordPress’s wide range of blocks directly into your lessons. Whether you want to add multimedia content, interactive elements, or rich text formatting, Gutenberg blocks provide you with the tools to create engaging and dynamic course content. This integration allows for a seamless and intuitive customization process, enabling you to enhance the learning experience without needing advanced technical skills.
   
2. Mergecodes and Shortcodes: Another powerful customization feature of WishList Member is its use of mergecodes and shortcodes. These tools allow you to insert personalized information directly into your content. For example, you can use mergecodes to display a student's name within a lesson, creating a more personalized and engaging experience. This level of customization helps in making your courses feel more tailored to individual learners, enhancing their overall experience.

3. Responsive Design and Layout Options: WishList Member’s responsive design ensures that your customized content looks great on any device. Additionally, you have the flexibility to adjust layouts and design elements to fit your brand’s aesthetic, ensuring a cohesive and professional appearance across all your materials.

By offering these customization options, WishList Member empowers you to create a unique and effective LMS that perfectly aligns with your goals and the needs of your learners. This flexibility enhances the user experience and allows you to continuously innovate and improve your offerings.

6. Regular Updates and Future Proofing

Frequent updates and future planning are essential for any LMS plugin. Regular updates ensure that your LMS remains secure, compatible with the latest WordPress versions, and equipped with new features to enhance functionality and user experience.

Future-proofing your LMS means selecting one that meets your current needs and evolves to support your long-term goals.

WishList Member excels in this area, with a dedicated team constantly working to bring highly requested features and expand its functionality. 

Here are a few reasons why frequent updates and future-proofing are crucial, and how WishList Member meets these needs:

1. Regular updates are vital for maintaining the security of your LMS. They patch vulnerabilities and protect against new threats, ensuring that your content and user data remain safe. WishList Member’s commitment to frequent updates means that you can trust your LMS to stay secure.

2. The LMS landscape is continually evolving, with new trends and technologies emerging regularly. By choosing a plugin that frequently adds new features, you ensure that your LMS stays competitive and capable of meeting the changing needs of your users. WishList Member’s team actively listens to user feedback and incorporates highly requested features, ensuring that the plugin remains cutting-edge.

3. Planning for the future means selecting a plugin that meets your current requirements and has the potential to grow and adapt. WishList Member’s ongoing development and commitment to expanding its functionality ensure that it will continue to meet your needs as your LMS evolves.

By prioritizing frequent updates and future-proofing, WishList Member ensures that your LMS remains a reliable, secure, and cutting-edge solution, ready to meet both present and future challenges.

Conclusion

Choosing a WordPress LMS plugin involves much more than comparing prices and features. 

As we've seen in this article, crucial considerations like compatibility, user experience, scalability, support, customization options, and regular updates all play significant roles in ensuring your LMS meets your needs and supports your growth.

WishList Member stands out in all these areas. With its integration capabilities, exceptional user experience, unlimited scalability, comprehensive support and documentation, extensive customization options, and a commitment to continuous improvement, WishList Member is a great support system for anyone looking to implement a powerful and flexible LMS.

Explore WishList Member today and see how it can meet and exceed your LMS needs, helping you create a dynamic and effective learning platform.

What other things do you consider when choosing an WordPress LMS plugin? Let us know in the comment section below.

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But it doesn’t have to be. All you need is the right tools and a bit of know-how. 

In this post, we'll walk through everything you need to know to get started. So grab a coffee as we explore everything you need to know about switching to online consulting.

Benefits of Selling Consulting Services Online

Selling consulting services online comes with a host of pros that simply can’t be matched by traditional consulting methods. 

Let’s break down some of the key advantages:

Flexibility: One of the biggest perks of online consulting is the flexibility it offers. You can work from anywhere – whether that’s your home office, a beach in Bali, or a cozy café. This freedom allows you to create a work-life balance that suits your lifestyle.

Cost Reduction: Moving your consulting business online can significantly reduce overhead costs. Say goodbye to expensive office space, commuting costs, and other associated expenses. All you need is a good internet connection and the right tools to get started.

Access to a Global Market: The internet breaks down geographical barriers, allowing you to reach clients from all over the world. This expanded reach increases your potential client base and exposes you to diverse challenges and opportunities that can enrich your consulting practice.

By transitioning to online consulting, you’re not just modernizing your business – you’re opening up new avenues for growth, efficiency, and success.

Strategies to Enhance Client Relationships When Selling Consulting Services Online

But selling your consulting services online comes with a small downside – you lose some that in-person contact which can help with building client relationships and establishing loyalty.

With that in mind let's look at what protocols and systems you can put in place to help you build and maintain strong relationships with your clients – vital for long-term, sustainable success in online consulting. 

• Create a Client Portal: A dedicated client portal serves as a centralized hub where clients can access resources, track progress, and communicate with you seamlessly. This fosters transparency and allows clients to stay engaged with your services, enhancing their overall experience and satisfaction.

• Communicate Clearly and Regularly: Keep your clients informed with regular updates and respond promptly to their inquiries. Clear and consistent communication builds trust and shows your clients that you are dedicated to their needs. Schedule a weekly/ biweekly video call with each of your clients.

• Personalize Your Approach: Tailor your communication and services to meet each client’s specific needs and preferences. Understanding their unique challenges and goals can help you deliver more relevant and impactful solutions.

• Seek Feedback: Regularly ask for feedback to improve your services and show that you value their opinions. This helps you refine your approach and makes clients feel heard and appreciated.

• Provide Consistent Quality: Ensure that every interaction delivers the same level of professionalism and quality. Consistency reinforces reliability and helps maintain your reputation.

• Educate Your Clients: Share useful information and insights related to their industry or challenges.
  
  Create a members-only area where you can share exclusive content, such as industry reports, and tutorials. Depending on your niche, you might consider running exclusive group debriefs and workshops via Zoom.
  
  These additional offerings add value and strengthen your clients' reliance on your expertise.

• Acknowledge Important Dates: Send greetings or acknowledgments on special occasions like business anniversaries or major holidays. These small gestures can go a long way in building a personal connection and showing your clients that you care.

Implementing these strategies will help you foster strong, lasting relationships with your clients, ensuring their satisfaction and loyalty.

How To Set Up Your Online Consulting Business

To effectively manage and deliver your online consulting services, you’ll need a few essential technologies and platforms. 

We recommend the following tech stack to get you started.

WordPress

This is a powerful and flexible platform for building your website. It’s user-friendly and has a huge library of plugins to enhance your site’s functionality.

WishList Member

WishList Member is one such plugin, allowing you to create a membership site. You can manage your clients, protect your content, and offer exclusive resources to your members.

Zoom

A reliable platform for video conferencing, which is crucial for delivering live consulting sessions. What makes Zoom even more powerful is its integration with WishList Member. This integration allows you to schedule and manage live calls and group sessions directly through your membership site. Check out this guide on WishList Member's Zoom integration.

By using these technologies and platforms, you can streamline your operations, deliver high-quality consulting services, and provide a seamless experience for your clients. 

Now that your business is set up, it’s time to think about marketing your services to attract clients.

How to Market Your Online Consulting Services

Marketing your consulting services effectively is essential for attracting new clients and growing your business. 

Here are some key tactics and tips to help you succeed:

SEO (Search Engine Optimization):

• Optimize Your Website: Ensure your website is optimized for search engines. Use relevant keywords, such as “online consulting services,” throughout your site to improve your search rankings.
• Create Quality Content: Regularly publish valuable content that addresses the needs and pain points of your target audience. Blog posts, articles, and guides can help attract organic traffic and establish your expertise.
• Build Backlinks: Get other reputable websites to link to your content. This can improve your site’s authority and search engine rankings.

Content Marketing:

• Start a Blog: Share insights, tips, and industry news on your blog. This positions you as a thought leader and provides valuable information to your audience.
• Offer Free Resources: Create ebooks, whitepapers, and online classes that provide in-depth knowledge on relevant topics. Offering these resources in exchange for email addresses (aka lead marketing) can help grow your contact list.
• Guest Posting: Write guest posts for other reputable blogs in your industry. This can help you reach a wider audience and drive traffic back to your site.

Social Media:

• Choose the Right Platforms: Focus on the social media platforms where your target audience is most active. LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook are often effective for professional services.
• Engage with Your Audience: Share your content, participate in discussions, and respond to comments and messages. Engaging with your audience can build trust and foster relationships.
• Run Ads: Consider using paid advertising to reach a larger audience. Targeted ads on social media platforms can help you attract potential clients.

Email Marketing:

• Build Your Email List: Use lead magnets like free resources or newsletters to encourage visitors to subscribe to your email list.
• Segment Your Audience: Group your subscribers based on their interests and needs. This allows you to send more personalized and relevant content.
• Nurture Leads: Send regular emails with valuable content, updates, and offers. This keeps your audience engaged and positions you as a go-to resource.

Using Testimonials and Case Studies:

• Collect Testimonials: Ask satisfied clients to provide testimonials that highlight their positive experiences with your services. Display these prominently on your website and marketing materials.
• Create Case Studies: Showcase your success stories with detailed case studies. Describe the challenges your clients faced, the solutions you provided, and the results achieved. Case studies are powerful tools for demonstrating your expertise and attracting new clients.

Implementing these marketing tactics will help you effectively promote your consulting services online, attract new clients, and grow your business.

Start Selling Consulting Services Online Today!

Taking your consulting services online is a powerful move that can transform your business. We've explored the many benefits of online consulting, from increased flexibility and reduced costs to the ability to reach a global market. 

Setting up your online consulting business is straightforward with the right tools, like WordPress, WishList Member, and Zoom. 

By integrating these technologies, you can offer seamless, professional services that cater to a diverse client base.

Finally, marketing your services effectively is crucial, and leveraging strategies like SEO, content marketing, social media, and email marketing can help you attract and retain clients. 

Building strong client relationships through clear communication, personalization, and consistent quality is key to long-term success. 

Ready to take your consulting business to the next level?

Discover how our Zoom integration with WishList Member can enhance your online consulting sessions and provide a top-notch experience for your clients. Read more about our Zoom integration. Embrace the future of consulting and unlock the full potential of your services online.

This type of learning enables you to attend lectures and then hop online to access all kinds of cool resources and activities.

As we see more advancements in technology and changes in how we approach education, hybrid teaching models like blended learning are becoming more and more important. 

They offer the flexibility we need to fit learning into our busy lives while keeping that personal touch that in-person classes provide. 

Plus, they cater to different learning styles, making education more engaging and accessible for everyone. 

So, let’s get to know why blended learning or hybrid teaching is a great idea for your course and how you can start implementing it today.

Benefits of Blended Learning or Hybrid Teaching Program

Blended learning brings a wealth of benefits to the table, making it a great option for educators and learners alike. 

Let's break down some of the key advantages:

1. Flexibility

One of the biggest perks of blended learning is its flexibility. It allows students to tailor their education around their lives.

With an online course element, students can access materials and complete assignments at their convenience, making it easier for those with busy schedules to balance work, family, and study commitments.

Adult learning is a major industry as people work on updating their existing knowledge in fast-moving industries, and workers expand their skills to meet the demands of a changing workplace.

The adaptability of blended learning is invaluable for these students who need to fit education into their demanding lives.

2. Accessibility

With blended learning, students can learn from anywhere, anytime. By making your materials and assessments available online, students can gain skills on the go.

Chances are, you've seen someone using apps like Duolingo on their morning commute, or while waiting in line for coffee. Blended learning opens up the possibility of this bitesize learning for your students.

If students have the option to optimize their down time and pick up your learning materials whenever, wherever, this can contribute to improved learning outcomes and higher satisfaction.

3. Engagement

Blended learning keeps students engaged by incorporating a variety of teaching tools and methods.

Online discussion forums, video conferencing, and collaborative tools allow students to connect with peers and instructors, creating a dynamic learning community.

These tools encourage active participation and critical thinking, making learning more interactive and enjoyable.

4. Improved Learning Outcomes

Studies have shown that blended learning can lead to superior academic outcomes.

The combination of in-person instruction and online activities creates a well-rounded learning experience.

Students benefit from immediate feedback on assignments, additional practice through online exercises, and the ability to review content as needed.

Blended courses can also adapt to students' needs, providing targeted resources to address learning gaps.

5. Cost-Effectiveness

Blended learning is often more cost-effective for all parties involved.

You save money on physical classroom space and printed materials, while students save on commuting expenses. A blended learning streamlines administrative tasks, allowing you to focus more on teaching.

6. Scalability

Blended learning scales effortlessly, making it adaptable for various educational settings, from small workshops to large university courses.

You can handle a large number of students, ensuring that as your course grows, the quality of education remains high without significant additional resources. It's an efficient way to expand your reach and impact without overextending yourself.

It's clear that blended learning offers numerous advantages for both students and educators. From flexibility and personalized learning to enhanced engagement and scalability, this approach provides a comprehensive solution that meets the needs of modern education.

By incorporating blended learning into your courses, you can create a more dynamic, accessible, and effective learning environment for everyone involved.

Choosing an LMS: Essential Features of WishList Member for Blended Learning

Now you know the benefits of blended learning, it's time to start exploring the tools necessary to build an online course on your website. If you own a WordPress site, top of your list is finding a Learning Management System (LMS) plugin that's

a) seamless to set up and use, and

b) has flexible options to offer a dynamic learning experience.

When it comes to implementing blended learning, WishList Member offers some fantastic features that can help create a seamless and engaging educational experience. 

Let’s explore these key features and how they can benefit your blended learning program.

Zoom Integration for Group Sessions 

WishList Member has an inbuilt Zoom integration, allowing you to offer 1:1 calls and live classes only to your students . This integration makes it easy to set up virtual classrooms, webinars, and group meetings.

Zoom integration enhances online learning interactions by providing a platform for real-time communication. This feature is perfect for hosting live lectures, Q&A sessions, and collaborative group work, ensuring that students can engage with instructors and peers, no matter where they are.

Interactive Learning with Points and Badges

One of the most effective ways to keep learners motivated and engaged is by gamifying the learning process. 

WishList Member’s points and badges system allows you to reward students for completing tasks, reaching milestones, and participating in activities.

Gamification makes learning fun and encourages continuous participation. By earning points and badges, students are motivated to stay engaged and achieve their learning goals. It adds an element of friendly competition and provides tangible recognition for their efforts.

How to Implement a Blended Learning or Hybrid Teaching Program

Implementing a blended learning program can seem daunting, but with a clear strategy and the right tools, it becomes manageable and, as we've discovered, reaps a lot of benefits for your course.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Step 1: Planning Your Blended Learning Strategy

Before diving into the technical setup, it’s essential to plan your blended learning strategy. Identify your learning objectives, the needs of your learners, and the resources available. Consider how you will balance in-person and online components to create a cohesive learning experience.

Step 2: Create an Online Course

Now it’s time to bring your plan to life. Start by creating an online course using WishList Member. If you need additional features, consider the CourseCure Courses add-on, which offers enhanced functionalities for course management.

Steps to Create Your Course:

1. Set Up WishList Member: Purchase, Install, and configure WishList Member on your WordPress site.

2. Course Structure: Design your course structure, including modules, lessons, and multimedia content.

3. CourseCure Add-On: Install the CourseCure add-on to manage course content, track progress, and enhance user experience.

Step 3: Add Quizzes for Self-Assessment

Quizzes are a crucial component of blended learning, providing a way for learners to assess their understanding and receive feedback.

1. Create Quizzes: Use the quiz feature in CourseCure to design quizzes for each module.
2. Integrate Quizzes: Embed quizzes within the relevant sections of your course content.
3. Automated Feedback: Set up automated feedback to help learners understand their performance and areas for improvement.

Quizzes offer immediate insights into learner comprehension, allowing for timely intervention and support. They also keep learners engaged and motivated by providing a clear sense of progress.

Step 4: Interactive Learning with Points and Badges

Gamification can significantly enhance learner engagement by adding an element of fun and competition.

1. Set Up Points System: Award points for completing lessons, participating in discussions, and achieving high quiz scores.
2. Create Badges: Design badges for significant achievements, such as course completion or mastering a specific skill.
3. Motivation and Engagement: Use points and badges to motivate learners, encouraging them to stay active and complete the course.

Step 5: Integrate with Zoom for Online Live Sessions

Live sessions are a valuable component of blended learning, offering real-time interaction and collaboration.

1. Schedule Sessions: Use WishList Member’s Zoom integration to schedule regular live sessions.
2. Interactive Components: Use Zoom features like breakout rooms for small group activities and live polls for interactive discussions.
3. Record Sessions: Record live sessions and upload them to your course platform for learners who cannot attend in real-time.

Step 6: Adjusting and Scaling the Learning Programs

Once your blended learning program is up and running, it’s essential to continuously monitor and adjust it based on feedback and performance.

1. Gather Feedback: Collect feedback from learners to identify areas for improvement.
2. Analyze Performance: Use analytics to track learner progress and engagement.
3. Scale Up: As your program grows, adjust your resources and strategies to accommodate more learners and enhance the learning experience.

With WishList Member, you can navigate blended learning and hybrid teaching smoothly. By following these steps, you can create an engaging, flexible, and effective learning environment that meets the diverse needs of your learners.

Conclusion

Blended learning is revolutionizing the educational landscape by combining the strengths of in-person and online learning. 

Its benefits are clear: increased flexibility, enhanced accessibility, improved engagement, personalized learning experiences, and more efficient use of resources. 

With the right tools, like WishList Member, you can seamlessly implement a blended learning program that meets the diverse needs of your students.

WishList Member's powerful features, such as Zoom integration, interactive quizzes, and gamification through points and badges, make it an ideal choice for creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment. 

These tools enhance the learning experience and make it easier for educators to manage and scale their programs.

If you’re looking to transform your educational offerings, consider how blended learning and WishList Member can help you achieve your goals. By integrating these strategies and tools, you can create a flexible, engaging, and effective learning experience that caters to the needs of all your students.

Ready to take the next step? Explore the features of WishList Member today to start building your blended learning curriculum. Empower your learners and enhance your teaching methods with the innovative capabilities of WishList Member.

Are you using blended learning for your course? What benefits have you discovered? Share them in the comments section below!

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