5 "golden" tips to maximize revenue from XenForo 2.3's User Upgrades system
The Member Upgrades system (User Upgrades) is one of the most powerful monetization tools built into XenForo, yet it is often overlooked or used inefficiently by many administrators. Simply creating a "VIP" group with a few basic permissions is rarely enough to persuade users to open their wallets.
To turn User Upgrades into a significant source of revenue, you need a clear strategy, genuine value creation, and smart marketing. This article shares five proven "golden" tips to help you achieve that.
Tip 1: Create "Aesthetic" and "Fame" Privileges
Not all benefits need to be functional features many users are willing to pay just to stand out and show their support for the community.How to do it:
- Create Custom Banners:
Go to AdminCP > Groups & permissions > User groups, and select your VIP group. In the User banner styling section, choose a prominent banner style (e.g., Featured) and give it a name (e.g., Gold Member). - Customize Nickname Color:
Still in the group settings, use the Username CSS box to add color or special effects to VIP usernames. For example:
color: #DAA520; font-weight: bold; - Allow Custom Titles:
In the VIP group's permissions, enable the Edit custom title permission. This allows users to display a personalized title under their name, regardless of their post count.
Tip 2: Provide Access to Exclusive Content & Areas
This is the most straightforward and effective way to create value users are willing to pay for access to things that regular members don't get.How to do it:
- Create a new category (node):
For example: "VIP Area" or "Premium Documents". - Set permissions for that category:
- For the Registered group, set View forum permission to No.
- For your VIP group, set View forum permission to Yes.
In-depth articles, premium downloads, partner discount codes, or a private discussion area with experts.
Tip 3: Proactive Marketing with Notices
Users won't find the upgrade page on their own you need to guide them. Notices are an ideal tool for promoting your membership packages.How to do it:
- Go to:
AdminCP > Communication > Notices - Create a new Notice:
Use a floating or scrolling style to attract attention. - Content:
Write a compelling message. For example:
"Upgrade your account to VIP to remove ads and access exclusive areas! Learn more."
Include a direct link to the upgrade page (e.g., your-domain.com/account/upgrades). - Display conditions (important):
In the User criteria section, set the message to display only to users not in the VIP group. You can also target active users (e.g., those with more than 50 posts).
Tip 4: Build Tiered Upgrade Packages
Instead of offering just one option, give users multiple packages at different price points and durations so they feel like they're getting a bargain.How to do it:
- Go to:
AdminCP > Users > User upgrades - Create multiple upgrade packages. For example:
- Silver Package: 1 month – $10
- Gold Package: 6 months – $40 (Save $20!)
- Diamond Package: 1 year – $90 (Save $30 – Best value!)
Tip 5: "Game Up" and Combine Privileges
Make the upgrade feel like a natural part of the forum experience, not just a sale.How to do it:
[*]Create a Special Badge (Trophy):
Create a high-value trophy called "Benefactor" or "Gold Member", and set it to be automatically awarded to users who purchase a membership upgrade.
[*]Turn Off Advertising:
This is one of the most attractive perks.
Go to AdminCP > Setup > Advertising, edit each ad position, and in the Display criteria section, exclude the VIP user group. Be sure to promote this benefit clearly.
[*]Increase Powers:
Give VIP members access to exclusive permissions that regular users often desire such as the ability to change usernames, use image signatures, or have larger private message limits.
