Many people believe they can create an online community, and people will flock to it with little effort. Nothing is further from the truth. Creating a thriving online community takes time and effort. The person or team responsible for this task might need to hire a professional developer to help with the process as they encounter obstacles they don’t know how to overcome. Consider using a community website builder to avoid these obstacles and create an online community where people are begging to join. What benefits come with using this tool?
Easy to Use
One problem many people encounter when trying to build a community website is they take steps that aren’t necessary because they don’t know any better. With the website builder, the person creating the site can add interactive features and elements without writing any code. The program handles this step but will allow the website builder to code if they feel the site needs custom functionalities. The builder features guides to make it easy for anyone to create a fantastic site quickly.
Customization
Community members want to visit the site and immediately know where they are. Global consumers want a beautiful site rather than a simple one, but they also want a site that is easy to navigate. The website builder will ensure the site being created is visually appealing and user-friendly. The creator selects the site layout, colors, typography, images, and more.
Engagement
A community website builder increases user engagement. Only one-quarter of community members are active on a website, but they add significant value. Creators should offer tools to increase engagement and interaction, such as a forum where people can start and participate in discussions. A search bar is also needed so users can find what they need quickly.
Management
Website builders benefit from using this tool because it helps them support and manage the community. One in six communities has no management staff, while one in three only has one person working in the community full-time. They can do so with less effort when they use the website builder. Moderation tools help with this, and the website builder can keep things organized. They benefit from analytics that help monitor community performance and can join communities designed to help the.
Choosing a Community Builder
When choosing a community builder, the management team should look for specific features like customization options, an activity feed, and analytics. Moderation tools simplify managing the site, and community gamification elements motivate members to be active on the site. The right builder will allow members to create sub-groups and enable members to translate the content into the preferred language. Community members will appreciate an advanced search feature and a user-friendly site.
Pre-built templates and SEO features benefit the team responsible for establishing and monitoring the site. Furthermore, the site should integrate with other tools to make managing it easier. When this program is found, everyone will be happy, and the site will be frequently used.
Research different website builders to find the right program for the community. Look into free tools and paid ones. However, keep in mind the goal is community engagement. Price should never be the deciding factor when choosing this program, as a free program may not get full engagement, so the management team isn’t making the most of its time.
