Best Online Community Platforms

You’re looking at discussion forums, user profiles, content libraries, event calendars, and analytics.

Some platforms also offer gamification, integrations with CRM systems, and robust moderation tools.

It’s like sitting at a control panel with every switch and dial you need for community management.

The big wins? Increased customer engagement, improved support, and a treasure trove of user-generated content.

Plus, you get valuable insights into what your community cares about. It’s like an indirect form of market research.

Everyone from SaaS companies to non-profits, educational institutions, and even hobbyist groups.

If you’ve got a group of people with a common interest or goal, an online community platform can bring them together.

Implementation can be a mixed bag.

Some platforms are plug-and-play, while others might feel like you’re assembling IKEA furniture without the instructions. It’s crucial to have a clear strategy and dedicated resources for a smooth rollout.

However, perhaps the greater challenge than implementation is building and sustaining the community’s engagement level. I’ve seen a number of communities start with strong engagement only to see it dwindle over time.

You need a strong post-implementation plan to manage the community and ensure its ongoing success. It’s not a “set it and forget it” situation.

Higher Logic is like the Cadillac of community platforms—feature-rich, highly customizable, and typically appeals to an older audience.

Salesforce Experience Cloud integrates seamlessly with your CRM, making it an option for Salesforce users.

Gainsight Customer Communities focus on customer success, so it’s great for SaaS companies who want a community that aligns with this interest.

Bettermode is a newer entrant in this market. It offers a user-friendly and versatile platform perfect for smaller teams or niche communities.

Pricing varies widely. Higher Logic, Gainsight, and Salesforce Experience Cloud can be on the pricier side, often starting in the thousands per month. Bettermode offers more flexible pricing, sometimes starting in the low hundreds. Always check for hidden costs like add-ons or extra user fees.