How long does it take to create a membership website?

Creating a membership website is a substantial endeavour, involving tasks such as dealing with technology, planning the site, crafting content, building the website and audience, and employing marketing strategies for a successful launch. The process takes time to align all aspects seamlessly. However, if you’re prepared to kickstart the journey and already possess certain elements, like an established audience or pre-existing content (such as old YouTube videos or blog posts), the timeline could be considerably shorter. In realistic terms, a fully functional membership website could be up and running in just a couple of weeks.

 A membership website essentially serves as a gated section of your online business, where only signed-up members can access exclusive content. This controlled access can be achieved through straightforward methods like using a plugin. Once the barrier is in place, members can log in at their convenience to explore the exclusive content within.

The content and membership website options could be anything like:

• exclusive offers
• recipes
• videos
• hints and tip

How long does it take to create a membership website?

Planning the site

4-5 days

Before diving into the creation of your membership website and preparing content, it’s crucial to plan how you want the site to function. Your choice of site, such as WordPress membership websites, and the membership model you opt for will influence the content creation and website construction. A membership model involves determining why people should join your site and what you can offer them in return. Without a clear model, you risk investing time in a membership website that lacks appeal. To avoid this, establish a well-thought-out membership model by considering what members will receive upon joining, the different membership levels available, and any upcoming events you can integrate. Addressing these aspects provides a blueprint for the pages and features you want on your website.

Click here for 5 reasons why you should build your membership website on WordPress

Creating the content

1 day – 2 weeks

Creating a membership site involves a significant task. While a visually appealing website is essential, the content is crucial for attracting members. You have flexibility in how you create content—preparing some in advance or showcasing live webinars can be effective. This real-time approach eliminates the need for extensive pre-launch content creation, providing an authentic experience. Planning content release times, especially for businesses like food-related ones, adds value for members. Consider offering recipes, videos, or exclusive freebies during specific occasions. The possibilities for content are vast, giving you the flexibility to tailor it to your audience’s needs.

Create the membership website

4 days – 3 weeks

Once you’ve decided on your site’s type, membership options, content, and additional features like shops, it’s time to build your website. WordPress membership websites, commonly used, can be created using self-hosted WordPress sites at MemberLab. Various plugins serve as login gates for members. You can even enhance an existing website by adding accessible pages for members, with the help of a web developer if needed. If opting for WordPress, building it yourself is straightforward. Ensure to include payment options, especially for paid memberships, using plugins or services like PayPal. A secure website is essential, especially for online transactions. Key elements include a membership options page, a welcoming login page, security subscription keys, registration profile forms, and a privacy policy outlining how member data is handled.

Launch the website

3-4 days

When your site is ready, plan the launch carefully. Pre-launch marketing is crucial, and we’ve identified the top 6 strategies for long-term success. Consider building anticipation online and through social channels. Attracting new members is vital for a successful membership website, but equally important is keeping existing members satisfied. Ensure customer happiness to prevent dissatisfaction and potential losses. Implement a help desk system for clear communication, provide diverse content, and enhance perceived membership value. After establishing a happy member base, optimize your site through exercises like split testing to improve conversion rates and attract more signups.

Conclusion

Asking how long it takes to create a membership website is like asking how long a piece of string is, Realistically it’s as long as you make it! When planned correctly, a membership website can take days, weeks, or months to build. To create a membership site you’ll need all your ducks in a row which will take some time, but when it happens, you’ll feel like you’ve achieved something great and the results will start rolling in.