weeks - 1:29 am on Oct 3, 2006 (gmt 0)

This thread is very interesting to me in that I'm looking into launching a subscription site, having worked on the print side. We are finally getting past that "everything has to be free on the web." To heck with that.

There are some very good ideas here, but a key point that has been made that I'd like to stress is start asking for the re-up early. Real early. You should subscribe to something from Rodale Press and then watch how they go after you to re-up. They are recognized as the best in the print world.

It does sound as if you have some content issues that you're ready to address, but it also sounds like the honeymoon with your site lasts several months. That's speaks well of your expertise.

So, as soon as they subscribe-six to eight weeks--have a sale for "select customers only." 20 percent off for one year, or two years for the price of one. (The lifetime membership is too cheap. Kill it.) Make certain you have quick drop-dead date on the offer; make them act NOW. Tell them what is coming up when you mention this that "they will not want to miss."

Overall, take a look at your web site's promotion potential. Are you telling your customers what content is in development? What is coming up soon? Do you have ads on your site? If so, buy some space from yourself. If not, put some promotional ads on the left and right sides of the pages about upcoming attractions.

Do you have a board like this one for members? Ask anyone here, these boards are addictive. Like WW, you could have a free area and a "supporters" area. The free area would be a place attract those on the outside, in.

I would bet that you expect your fine product to speak for itself. Sorry, that will not work. You need to do a little marketing.

Idea for the moment: Spend some time on NYT.com and read how wonderful NYT.com is. They will tell you. Steal their ideas.