Choosing a paywall software vendor is not always an easy decision; you need to make sure that you get exactly the service you need. It’s important to take some time to think through all aspects of the situation and not to rush any decision you make.
We are here to take you through some of the things you need to consider when you are looking for a paywall software vendor.
Why not stay in-house?
One of the first questions you might ask yourself is why bother going to an external vendor at all; can’t your in-house team just set up your paywall system? This may seem like a good idea but the reality is quite different. Paywall solutions are far more complex than they may seem and devoting time and effort to developing and managing a paywall system will divert valuable resources from your core business. This is why it’s a good idea to work with a third party vendor. So what sort of issues should you consider when making your choice?
Are the features that you need present in the solution?
If you are new to paywalls then it may be difficult to know exactly what features you need. Here are some common paywall features, to give you an idea of what you should be looking for.
- Integration with your CMS either direct or indirect.
- Metered method available – the ability to allow limited access before the paywall activates.
- Time limited access to content available.
- IP level access available for organisations.
- Plug-in functionality.
- API access for greater control by developers.
In addition to these features, you also need to consider subscription features.
- Recurring subscription availability.
- Trial subscription availability.
- Option to provide temporary passes for content.
- Option to enable purchasing of single videos (PPV tariffs)
- Direct payment gateway support.
- Availability of reports and statistical data.
- Easy refunds.
- Ability to change subscription details.
- Automated notifications.
Once you have found a solution to suit your needs, then you need to take a look at the provider themselves; their costs and their communication.
How much will you pay?
You should always ensure that you know exactly what fees you are expected to pay for the service. Some vendors will expect you to pay a fee per subscriber; some will expect a percentage of the revenue you create. Payment amount may even be a combination of these. You should always be clear about exactly what you are expected to pay.
How good is communication with the vendor?
The last thing you want is to be dealing with a vendor who does not communicate with you. It should be easy to tell from the start how responsive they are. If you are new to paywall then you are going to need to support so you want to build a relationship with a vendor who will provide this. Ideally, you need to find a provider who is hands on with the help they provide.
We have given you an idea of the things you should be looking for in a paywall software vendor. Remember to take time to make your decision carefully as you do not really want to have to change your mind down the line.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact our sales team at InPlayer. They’ll be more than glad to help you with anything you need.
Choosing a paywall software vendor is not always an easy decision; you need to make sure that you get exactly the service you need. It’s important to take some time to think through all aspects of the situation and not to rush any decision you make.
We are here to take you through some of the things you need to consider when you are looking for a paywall software vendor.
Why not stay in-house?
One of the first questions you might ask yourself is why bother going to an external vendor at all; can’t your in-house team just set up your paywall system? This may seem like a good idea but the reality is quite different. Paywall solutions are far more complex than they may seem and devoting time and effort to developing and managing a paywall system will divert valuable resources from your core business. This is why it’s a good idea to work with a third party vendor. So what sort of issues should you consider when making your choice?
Are the features that you need present in the solution?
If you are new to paywalls then it may be difficult to know exactly what features you need. Here are some common paywall features, to give you an idea of what you should be looking for.
- Integration with your CMS either direct or indirect.
- Metered method available – the ability to allow limited access before the paywall activates.
- Time limited access to content available.
- IP level access available for organisations.
- Plug-in functionality.
- API access for greater control by developers.
In addition to these features, you also need to consider subscription features.
- Recurring subscription availability.
- Trial subscription availability.
- Option to provide temporary passes for content.
- Option to enable purchasing of single videos (PPV tariffs)
- Direct payment gateway support.
- Availability of reports and statistical data.
- Easy refunds.
- Ability to change subscription details.
- Automated notifications.
Once you have found a solution to suit your needs, then you need to take a look at the provider themselves; their costs and their communication.
How much will you pay?
You should always ensure that you know exactly what fees you are expected to pay for the service. Some vendors will expect you to pay a fee per subscriber; some will expect a percentage of the revenue you create. Payment amount may even be a combination of these. You should always be clear about exactly what you are expected to pay.
How good is communication with the vendor?
The last thing you want is to be dealing with a vendor who does not communicate with you. It should be easy to tell from the start how responsive they are. If you are new to paywall then you are going to need to support so you want to build a relationship with a vendor who will provide this. Ideally, you need to find a provider who is hands on with the help they provide.
We have given you an idea of the things you should be looking for in a paywall software vendor. Remember to take time to make your decision carefully as you do not really want to have to change your mind down the line.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact our sales team at InPlayer. They’ll be more than glad to help you with anything you need.