If you have a content-heavy website for your business, you might be curious about paywalls and when to use them. These are used as a means to generate more revenue, but does this mean it will work for your website too?
There are different types of paywalls, and based on the type of publication you have and your goals, you can find a suitable paywall for you. Here, we will help you understand what paywalls are, as well as when to use them for your website.
What Are Paywalls?
Paywalls are a way to restrict content through a digital wall, typically with the aim of monetising content.
How it works is that when a user tries to access an article with a wall, the notification that informs you are blocked from viewing the content will pop up, prompting them to subscribe to access restricted content on the website. Most websites that have these blocks are news companies that have moved from newspapers to digitised content.
Different Types?
There are various types of paywalls. Some websites tease readers by allowing them to read the first few paragraphs, while others might let you view the content once, and then the paywall will appear when you try to re-open the link. The different types are as follows:
Hard Paywall
Hard paywalls have a definitive barrier of content that hides content from readers until they subscribe. With this type, the intention is clear, you need to pay to access their content.
With this type of paywall, it will most likely appear as soon as you try to scroll through the content.
This type of paywall is beneficial because it sets a clear precedent that readers will require a subscription. However, the downside is that readers might want to know what your content is like before touching their pockets.
Soft Paywall
A soft paywall is found on websites that offer both free and premium content. Users can read through free pieces on the website, but, when they try to access the premium content, that’s when the soft wall will appear, prompting them to subscribe to the website.
Integrating a soft paywall into your website can benefit your users and your business simultaneously. This way, you can meet your revenue goals as well as increase user satisfaction.
Dynamic Paywall
Dynamic paywalls display based on the behaviour of the user. The wall is dynamic because it does not stick to a specific set of rules, thus, it does not use a one-size-fits-all approach. So, two users from different locations with their own browsing habits may be blocked at different points of their browsing.
This type uses advanced technology that looks at the patterns of a user’s browsing habit. Dynamic paywalls are also a great way to strike a balance between meeting revenue goals and satisfying your website visitors through accessible content.
Metered Paywall
Have you ever read a couple of articles on a site, and then all of a sudden, a paywall shows up? Those are metered paywalls, hence the amount of articles you can access is regulated. They are a type of soft paywalls that give your visitors a taste of your content to entice them to subscribe to your paid options.
If you’re wondering what best practices you should follow, like what a good number would be for free articles you allow, you should consider the amount of articles you have rolling out on a regular basis. Major publications can afford to allow up to 20 free articles, but if you’re a small publication, you should release a realistic number of free articles based on the capacity of your team, and your goals for monetisation.
Should You Use Paywalls For Your Website?
Paywalls are a useful strategy that businesses can implement to increase their revenue. However, it’s crucial to research each type and ensure you choose the best one for your kind of business. Additionally, consider looking at your competitors to analyse the type of paywalls they use.
Ensure you understand the type of reader you have on your website and how these blocks can affect your viewers. Once that’s done, you’re on the right track to incorporating paywalls and reaching your financial goals.
