Own members' area: Everything you need to know to boost your digital business

In recent years, having your own members' area has been the way forward for entrepreneurs and companies that want to increase customer retention, monetize knowledge and create a community engaged around your brand.

A complete members' area allows users to access exclusive content, products and services, usually on a subscription or one-off payment basis.

This model offers benefits both to consumers, who gain access to valuable information and premium services, and to content creators, who can generate revenue in a scalable way.

The popularization of the members' area in Brazil came about with the growth of Hotmart, which has always offered an area for students within their platform.

Over time, infoproducers began to look for other tools to deliver a more complete and professional ecosystem to their students.

The aim of this article is to give you absolutely EVERYTHING you need to know when choosing a members' area to start or scale your digital business.

What is a Members Area?

A members' area is a digital space reserved for a specific group of users who pay for access to exclusive content and resources.

This content can vary greatly in format, from online courses, live webinars, discussion forums, e-books, videos and much more.

The main objective is to offer an environment where customers can connect, learn and share experiences in a safe and private space.

Membership areas are especially popular with content creators, educators and companies who want to monetize their passions or expertise. This model allows these entities to offer added value to their users, helping them to develop skills, acquire new knowledge or simply take advantage of content that is not available to the general public.

You know cluband that once you're a member, you can access the entire common area? Go to the swimming pool, use the basketball court, the soccer pitch, go to the restaurant, leave your children in the playground and so on?

A members' area is like that, but an online space. And as if every leisure option mentioned above were actually learning options. Digital products such as classes, discussions, lives, events, etc.

Why invest in your own Members Area?

Create your own members' area, or use a members area as a serviceoffers several advantages compared to options such as the Hotmart Club:

Total control and customization

By creating your own members' area, you have full control over the user experienceYou can customize the design, functionality and the customer journeyso that everything reflects your brand.

Depending on the option you choose, you can create a unique experience, with more advanced customization, such as gamificationThe same can be said for forums or specific integrations, which are not always possible on ready-made platforms.

Independence and flexibility

Own platforms allow flexibility to adapt and expand resources as your business grows, without limitations imposed by the platform.

You can integrate the tools you prefer, such as CRMs, marketing automation and payment solutions that best suit your needs.

Total Data Retention and Advanced Analytics

With your own members' area, you have full access to the member dataand can analyze students' behavior, performance, preferences, and patterns of engagement without restrictions.

This makes it possible to create more precise strategies for retention and growth, personalizing experiences based on the data collected.

Fee savings

Unlike platforms such as Hotmart, which charge fees on sales, a members' area of your own can reduce transaction costsmaximizing long-term profitability.

"As a service" platforms also have more predictable costs, usually based on subscriptions, which helps with financial planning.

Construction of Community and Private Label

In your own members' area, you strengthen your your brand identitycreating an exclusive space that doesn't depend on third-party infrastructure and branding.

Having your own environment makes it easier to creation of a community engaged, where you can offer unique experiences and a closer, more personalized service.

Opting for an in-house or "as a service" membership area offers greater autonomy, control over the experience and the potential for data retention, directly benefiting the growth and sustainability of the business.

Why are Member Area Programs important?

Member area programs are important for a number of reasons that go beyond simply providing digital content. Here are a few points that highlight their relevance:

A members' area allows content to be presented in an organized way, making it easier to navigate and access information. This ensures that users find what they need quickly, improving the overall experience.

User Experience

Customer satisfaction is key. Platforms such as Scarf are dedicated to creating unique experiences, with intuitive interfaces and features that boost customer satisfaction. engagement of customers. A better user experience can result in greater retention and loyalty.

Exclusive Access to Content

Offering a student area creates a sense of exclusivity. Users have access to premium content such as courses, workshops and materials that are not publicly available, which adds value to the product proposition.

Community and Interaction

Many member areas promote community building around a specific topic or interest. This allows students to interact with each other, exchange experiences and learn from each other, further enriching the experience.

Monetization

For content producers, members' areas represent a direct monetization opportunity. Whether through subscriptions, sales of courses or digital products, this model can generate recurring and sustainable income.

Updates and Continuous Content

Member areas allow content to be constantly updated, giving users access to new information, resources and tools as they become available, maintaining interest and engagement.

Feedback and Continuous Improvement

With a members' area, it is possible to collect direct feedback from users on what they would like to see, allowing content producers to adjust and improve their offerings based on the needs of the audience.

In short, membership areas are essential for creating an ecosystem where both content producers and consumers benefit, resulting in an enriching and lasting experience.

The Structure of a Members Area

A well-structured members' area offers a cohesive and satisfying experience for users, ensuring that they have easy access to the content and resources available. Here are the main components that make up the structure of an effective members' area:

Welcome page

The first impression is always the most important. The welcome page should present a clear and welcoming message, explaining what members can expect from the area. This can include a brief introduction to the content available and guidelines on how to navigate the platform.

Dashboard or Control Panel

The dashboard serves as the command center of the members' area. This is where users can quickly view the latest content, scheduled events and updates. An organized dashboard with direct links to important sections improves navigation and usability.

Conclusive Content

The members' area should contain the main offers - courses, videos, articles, e-books, file collections, among other materials that are exclusive to subscribers. This content should be organized into categories or modules to facilitate access. In addition, it is important to offer detailed descriptions of each material, so that members know exactly what they are about to consume.

Community and/or Forum

Integrating a space for social interaction is essential. Discussion forums, support groups or live chat allow members to interact, ask questions and create bonds. These interactions increase engagement and promote a sense of belonging.

Support Resources

An accessible support system, such as FAQs, video tutorials or a customer service chat, is vital. This helps members resolve problems quickly and ensures that their experience is not hampered by technical difficulties.

Feedback system

Implementing a system where members can leave feedback on the content and experience is essential. Not only does this show that you value their opinion, but it also helps you to continually improve your members' area offer.

Live Events and Webinars

Interactive events, such as webinars or Q&A sessions, add significant value. They allow members to learn in real time and interact directly with content creators or experts.

Notifications area

A section for notifications keeps members informed about news, content releases, upcoming events and other important updates. Regular communication helps retain interest and encourage them to return to the platform.

By implementing these elements in an integrated way, a members' area can become a community vibrant and active, boosting user engagement and satisfaction, as well as generating positive results for your online business.

What you can offer in your Members Area

There are several types of member area programs, each with specific characteristics and purposes. Below we list some of the most common types:

This is one of the most popular types of membership areas. Infoproducers offer structured courses with video content, handouts, quizzes, certificate of completion, lessons in modules (and sub-modules), etc. A delivery of the content can be programmed, allowing students to progress through modules at their own pace.

These areas focus on creating a community around a common interest. Members can interact with each other, take part in discussions in forums, chats or social network groups, and exchange experiences and knowledge.

Content Subscriptions

Platforms that offer regular content, such as blogs, podcasts or videos, where members pay a monthly fee to access exclusive material, updates and new content.

Premium content

A model where members have access to high-quality content that is not available to the general public. This can include e-books, webinars, coaching or consulting sessions.

Training Programs

Aimed at professionals looking to specialize in a specific area. They include learning modules, certifications and often support from tutors or mentors.

Product launches

Used to introduce new products or services, where members have early access to the news, as well as exclusive content related to these launches.

Discussion Forums

Areas that emphasize interaction between members through forums, where they can raise questions, share knowledge and get feedback from other members and experts.

Training and Workshops

Programs that offer live or recorded training, practical workshops and Q&A sessions, focusing on the application of specific knowledge.

Subscription Services

In addition to content, some member areas offer physical or digital products, such as subscription boxes, access to software or exclusive tools.

Networking spaces

Areas aimed at connecting professionals in certain areas, where they can introduce themselves, exchange contacts and opportunities for collaboration.

Each of these programs can be adapted to meet the specific needs of different niche markets and target audiences. The choice of the ideal type of membership area should be based on the objectives of the infoproducer and the expectations of the members.

Choosing the best members' area platform

Generally, a digital entrepreneur's journey begins through one of the big course platforms, such as Hotmart, Kiwify or Eduzz.

When it starts to grow, it realizes that it needs a platform that is more customized and delivers a series of more advanced features.

But which platform to choose?

To choose the ideal platform for your teaching ecosystem, it is essential to consider both the functionalities it offers and the user experience. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you make your choice.

Evaluate the features

The first thing to do is to list the essential functionalities that the platform must have:

• Content ProtectionThe platform must ensure that its educational material is protected against piracy and unauthorized access. Check for access control and encryption options.
• User SupportGood support is crucial, both for you and your students. Look for platforms that offer efficient customer service, with several contact options (chat, email, telephone). If language is important to you, it's worth avoiding the foreign platforms without support in Portuguese.
• Intuitive dashboardThe interface must be user-friendly, allowing you to understand everything that is happening with your students on the platform. A well-designed dashboard makes it easier to manage content and monitor student development.
• AutomationsThe ability to automate processes such as sending emails, reminders and updates saves a lot of time and ensures that communication with students is effective. Sometimes it costs more to pay for a platform without This is due to the need to hire someone to do the work manually.

User Experience

User experience is one of the most important factors. Remember that your students should feel comfortable and motivated to continue learning. Consider:

• Test the platform yourself to see how usable it is.
• Get feedback from friends or colleagues who can simulate your students' experience.

Search for Opinions and Testimonials

Before making a final decision, research the opinions of other users. See what students and other content producers are saying about the platform. See if there are any testimonials attesting to the effectiveness and quality of the support and functionalities.

Try it before Purchaser

Many platforms offer free trials or demos. Take this opportunity to explore what each one has to offer. This can help you avoid rash decisions and ensure that you make the right choice for your type of content.

Cost vs. benefit

Finally, consider the cost of the platform in relation to the benefits it offers. A more expensive platform may have features that save time and increase student satisfaction, while a cheaper option may not have everything you need to provide a high-quality experience.

How to get the most out of the content ecosystem

Hiring a good student area is like purchaser a sports car. It's a good first step, but you still need to know how to drive it.

Luckily, you're in the right place, so read on to find out the most important steps to get the most out of your members area.

Planning the Content

Planning the members' area requires attention to detail and a commitment to delivery of continuous value. By focusing on the relevance of content, offering interactive experiences and guaranteeing support and security, you can create a learning environment that not only meets but exceeds students' expectations. This, in turn, will strengthen trust in your brand and increase the engagement in the long term.

1. Definition of Objectives and Target Audience
   First of all, it is essential to understand who your target audience is and what their needs and expectations are. Define clear objectives for your members area, such as increasing the engagementprovide constant updates or create a community active. This will help guide the type of content you produce.
2. Content Structure
   Organize content in a logical and attractive way. Consider creating modules or categories that make navigation easier. Include different content formats such as videos, articles, quizzes, practical exercises and webinars. This not only makes learning more dynamic, but also caters for different learning styles.
3. Relevance and updating
   Critically analyze whether the content you plan to make available is really relevant and whether it delivers on the promises made during the launch. Content needs to be updated regularly to reflect new information or trends, ensuring that students continue to find value in the members' area.
4. Interactivity and Community
   Focus on creating an interactive experience. Consider including discussion forums, live question and answer sessions, and the possibility of comments in class. This not only increases engagementbut it also allows students to feel part of a community. community learning.
5. Evaluations and Feedback
   Implement assessment and feedback tools, such as quizzes and tests. Also, provide certificates of completion to encourage students to complete the course. Student feedback is crucial to continually improving the content and experience of the platform.
6. Content Protection
   Make sure the content is protected against unauthorized copying. Choose a platform that offers robust security and access control features.
7. Automations and Support
   Use automation tools to manage enrollments, payments and communications with students. This will allow you to focus on content creation while ensuring that the student experience is fluid. Also, have technical support available to quickly resolve any problems that may arise.
8. Performance Analysis
   After launching the members' area, monitor the performance of the content and student interaction. Use metrics such as completion rates, engagement and feedback to make adjustments as necessary.

Structuring Membership Levels and Benefits

To structure membership levels and benefits, follow these steps:

1. Membership levels

• BasicAccess to introductory content and limited support.
• IntermediateComplete courses, exclusive events and more support.
• PremiumExclusive content, mentoring and personalized consultancy.

2. Benefits by Level

• Exclusive Content: Offer more depth as the level progresses.
• Priority AccessEvents and exclusive support for higher levels.
• Recognition: Gamification and badges for advanced members.

3. Personalized Experience

• Upgrades: Easy to change levels, with clear benefits.
• Regular feedback: Adjust benefits based on members' preferences.

Structure each level to offer increasing value and encourage upgrades.

Defining Prices and Special Offers

To create an effective pricing and offers strategy, a powerful approach is to product conveyora concept popularized by Russell Brunson. The idea is to build a sequence of offers with increasing value and complexity, guiding the customer through a journey of value.

If you're not sure how a product conveyor works, it follows this logic:

1. Free Bait (Lead Magnet)Offer something of value for free, such as an e-book, checklist or introductory lesson, in exchange for the customer's e-mail address. It helps to attract and qualify leads.
2. Low Ticket (Entry Product): Offer a low-cost product (between R$47 and R$297), such as a mini-course or practical guide. The aim is to convert leads into customers, without major price barriers.
3. Core OfferThis is the main offer, with an intermediate price (e.g. R$497 to R$997). Usually a complete course or a series of more in-depth lessons.
4. High Ticket (Premium Product)For customers who want more, offer a high-value product (from R$1997), such as mentoring, consulting or exclusive access to advanced content.
5. Continuity Offer (Subscription): Maintain an ongoing relationship by offering a subscription, be it a communityaccess to new monthly content or recurring mentoring. Generates predictable and recurring revenue.

Product conveyor benefits

• Maximize RevenueBy guiding the customer through different levels of offer, you can increase the average amount spent.
• Building RelationshipsWith each offer, the customer gets closer to the brand and trusts the value delivered, which facilitates future sales.
• Natural segmentationEach step of the treadmill filters and qualifies customers, helping to understand who is most engaged and willing to invest more.

Marketing Strategies for Member Area Programs

Capturing Leads for your Members Area

Digital producers generally use various strategies to capture leads, depending on the type of product and the target audience. Here are some of the most common ways:

1. LaunchesThis strategy includes the use of a specific sales cycle, often with limited sales opening periods. There are different types, such as internal launch (aimed at an audience that already knows the producer), seed launch (testing a new offer with a smaller group), and the lightning launch (short offer and intense promotion).
2. WebinarsInfoproducers offer live, free content, usually with a presentation on a specific topic, followed by an offer at the end. It can be live or recorded, but the aim is to educate and generate value before making a direct offer.
3. Perpetual FunnelUnlike launches, the perpetual funnel is a continuous sales strategy in which the product is available all the time. It is usually supported by paid advertisements, content marketing, emails and other tactics to constantly capture leads.
4. Digital Baits (Lead Magnets)They can include e-books, checklists, guides, free lessons, or other free content of value in exchange for contact, such as email, to nurture the contact. lead afterwards.
5. Challenges and WorkshopsThese are events of short duration (3 to 5 days, for example), where the infoproducer delivery content in a challenge or workshop format, creating a sense of community and urgency. At the end, there is a more complete offer.
6. Landing Pages: Specific pages, optimized for conversionwhere leads are captured in exchange for something of value, such as signing up for a free course, an event, or a special offer.
7. Free Content on Social Media and YouTubeMany infoproducers use free content in videos, posts and lives to attract and engage leads. This helps to build authority and trust, leading interested parties to sign up for email lists or participate in other sales funnels.
8. Paid AdsUsually on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Google Ads, infoproducers segment their audience and directly promote their lead magnets, webinars or events.

Using SEO to Attract New Members

With a blog, a newsletter and a community, o infoproducer can attract new members using SEO simple and effective:

1. Blog Optimized for SEO

• Long-tail keywordsChoose keywords that answer specific questions from your audience and create educational and relevant content.
• On-Page SEO BasicOptimize titles, headings and meta descriptions with relevant keywords, as well as using internal links to other posts and content on the site. blog.
• Consistent posts: Publish regularly, prioritizing popular topics and those related to the interests of the community. community.

2. Content Community (User Generated Content - UGC)

• Discussions and FAQs: Encourage the active participation of members to generate discussions that naturally contain keywords related to the niche.
• Testimonials and Reviews: Ask for feedback and opinions on products or topics in the community. This generates keyword-rich content in an authentic way.
• SEO Natural: The content generated by community brings varied keywords, helping to rank for different search terms.

3. Newsletter with Relevant Content

• Incorporating links from Blog and Community: Encourage subscribers to access the blog and communityincreasing traffic and site authority.
• Recurring and Shareable Content: Produce newsletters that address popular topics, generating shares and encouraging new registrations.
• Keywords in the NewsletterIf the content is to be archived online, use keywords in the titles and descriptions.

Engagement and Member Retention

Providing Continuous Value for Members

In order to engage and retain members, the digital entrepreneur must focus on offering continuous value and keeping the community active and interested. Here are some effective strategies:

Regular Content Updates

• Constant Updates: Share news, insights and trends relevant to the niche. This shows that community is always up to date and worth keeping an eye on.
• Content SeriesCreate thematic series with exclusive content for members, such as mini-courses, tutorials or case studies, to deepen knowledge over time.

Interaction and Rapid Response

• Q&A sessions: Organize regular lives or Q&A sessions where members can ask questions and interact directly.
• Responding and Encouraging DiscussionsKeep a close eye on interactions in the communityThey respond quickly and encourage the sharing of ideas and opinions.

Recognition and Gamification

• Incentives and rewardsCreate a system of points or badges to recognize the most active and engaged members. These small recognitions encourage continued participation.
• Spotlight on Member Contributions: Highlight posts, comments or content from members, giving visibility and encouraging more contributions.

User Generated Content (UGC)

• Encourage User Posts: Allow members to share their own experiences, tips and knowledge. This not only generates authentic content, but also promotes a sense of belonging.
• Events and Challenges CommunityLaunch collaborative challenges or projects that members can contribute to, such as a series of collaborative posts or weekly challenges.

Exclusive Member Benefits

• Early Access and Priority on New ContentGive members early access to new material or information. This creates a sense of exclusivity and makes them feel they are getting more value.
• Networking and Direct ConnectionsOrganize virtual meetings for networking or small group discussions, where members can connect and learn from each other.

Interaction and Feedback with Members

• Opinion and satisfaction surveys: Regularly ask members what they would like to see and how the experience at community can be improved.
• Adjustments based on feedbackWhenever possible, implement suggestions and improvements. This shows that community is shaped according to the needs of the members.

Resources for Member Area Management

Analysis and Reports

• Engagement: Frequency of access and member interaction.
• Retention and Churn: Retention rate and members who left.
• ProgressCompletion of courses or modules.
• SupportNumber of requests and response time.
• FinanceRevenue, defaults and invoicing.

Task automation

• Automatic e-mailsWelcome, reminders and re-engagement.
• Access Management: Automatic entry and exit control.
• Internal notifications: Alerts to the team about important actions.
• CRM and Payment Integration: Synchronization and automation of collections.
• Repetitive tasks: Automation with Zapier or n8n for continuous flow.

Customer support

• Knowledge BaseFAQ and self-service resources.
• Live Chat and Chatbot: Fast and automatic service.
• Ticket system: Organization and prioritization of support.
• MultichannelE-mail, chat and forums on community.
• Support Evaluation: Feedback from members for continuous improvement.

Conclusion

The decision as to whether it's worth hiring a members' area depends on the objectives and specific needs of your business.

If you're looking for an effective way to monetize content, build a community or offer a subscription service with high perceived value in an exclusive environment, then investing in a members' area is certainly an excellent choice.

When choosing a platform, consider fundamental aspects such as the functionalities offered, the ease of customization, and the support needed to guarantee the best experience for your members.

Always keep in mind the importance of choosing a solution that aligns with your long-term strategy and allows your company to grow. community.

For those looking for a complete, robust and adaptable platform, the Scarf is the best option.

With advanced content management features, tools for engagementScarf offers everything you need to create and manage a successful members' area, helping you to deliver ongoing value and strengthen the relationship with your customers. audience.