People less likely pay for premium memberships in bad times?

[froggyboy604]

Are people less likely to subscribe to paid membership subscriptions for websites, services, and information when there is a depression, recession, credit crunch, and they're unemployed or poor ?

I posted a thread on a forum which ask how likely you are to pay for a membership on a website, forum, or blog. I got back only negative replies saying people who subscribe to paid subscriptions are fools and idiots.

But, I feel if a website offers a lot of valuable content like articles, HD videos, and High Resolution pictures for paid members to view without "any" advertising on the page, it can be a great deal.

My best guest that so many people disapprove of paid membership for websites is because they don't see value in "ad-free" excellent articles, HD video, and High Res. pictures which is rare online, or they are poor, so they rather spend their money on food then paid content.

But, I still don't see a need to call subscribers who subscribe to paid website content news services online are fools or idiots.

I also don't subscribe to any paid online services mainly because I haven't found any paid content sites which I like except I do plan on subscribing to http://www.crunchyroll.com premium membership once I find a full time job, or earn more money online.

 

[Phuturism]

Re: People less likely pay for premium memberships in bad ti

Very true, while some may continue to pay for the premium services you'll always have those that are not able to. Another thing that admins can look to do is probably add one or two extra things into the addin service, something to entice those thinking of leaving to stay.

 

[tbofram]

Re: People less likely pay for premium memberships in bad ti

it depends on the costs really. if you charge alot then yes but if you don't charge much then i don't think it would really matter to be honest

 

[lucasbytegenius]

Re: People less likely pay for premium memberships in bad ti

Personally, if it's priced right and the benefits are great, I don't think you should have a problem.

On my forum, I have a different set up from the subscription system, I simply accept donations and donors are moved to the VIP group with some extra features. I don't promote it much either, I have yet to mention it on my forum, but there's a link in the footer.

I don't like visiting sites and feeling pressured to buy VIP. I just leave those kinds.

 

[Clarkie]

Re: People less likely pay for premium memberships in bad ti

It does very much depend on the service. People will be more aware of what they're spending but if they really want that VIP feature and it's less than $15 they'll still buy it. It's just even more crucial that you have a product rather than just a fancy username.

 

[Grumpy]

Re: People less likely pay for premium memberships in bad ti

As others have said, most of it depends on what you're charging for your premium membership and if it would be valuable to the member who is purchasing it. If it's $10 a year and offers that member something they've really wanted on your forum (ie, ability to have a custom usertitle), then if they have the money, they're likely to pay. Times have changed money-wise yes, but the amount of people paying for premium memberships... I don't think so.