Thread

Hi,

I’ve had a bit of a search through the forums and docs, but I’m up against a tight deadline, so I was hoping someone could help with a couple of questions before I purchase a license.

I basically need to create a site that has both a forum section and a news/info section. I know that part is pretty standard, the potentially trickier parts are with the subscription based access.

My client wants varying levels of access for free, one-off payment (limited time), and subscription users respectively, but this access will be to forum discussions *and* certain parts of the rest of the site. This access really needs to be via a single login, so users can move between restricted areas of the forum and main site seamlessly, and also have their account automatically setup after payment.

Could this be achieved with EE using SImple Commerce and the forum module?

Thanks,
Dan

yeah it could.

The EE site itself does just that. For example, Pro Network members have access to the Pro Network discussion board, regular users don’t.

All you need to do is change a member group on payment.

Awesome, thanks Steven.

Just a final question for my peace of mind before I hit ‘Buy’ - can the user account definitely be created automatically (and login details emailed) once a payment is successfully made (I guess it would use PayPal’s IPN)?

Also, can it handle the time-dependent nature of subscriptions - ie some people may have bought a 1-month sub, where as others have a 12-month sub? Finally, what about a one-off payment for access for a more limited time (maybe only a day)?

That’s it, no more questions - if someone can answer ‘yes’ to the above then I’m sold!

Cheers,
Dan

The user account isn’t create automatically.

The user would need to create an account (standard for most ecommerce transactions), they would then add their product (in this case a content subscription product) to their cart. They then checkout using that product. When their payment is made, then the Simple Commerce Module updates their member group as appropriate.

For the time based stuff, set the frequency on the item and set the member group they should be downgraded to if they don’t pay.

Hello,

Thank you for using the ExpressionEngine forums!

Thank you for the assist Steven.

All of the answers here are good. I like Steven’s approach to the time based questions you have. Simple Commerce does allow for subscription frequency.

Subscription Frequency

The number of time periods between each recurrence of a subscription. If you set a recurring payment time period, this value is required.

For example, if the subscription payment unit is ‘Weeks’ and the subscription frequency is ‘2’, purchasers will be billed by PayPal every 2 weeks.

I would just add that there are more options available as well. Devot:ee has listed a few store front options like Cartthrobe and Brilliant Retail.

I hope this helps. If you have any more questions, please do not hesitate to ask. That’s why we are here!

Cheers,

If you are looking at 3rd party add-ons for member subscriptions you probably also want to look at Membrr - http://devot-ee.com/add-ons/membrr-subscription-billing.

I haven’t used it personally but have heard good things about it.

Agreed Euan. I guess it depends on whether you’re happy with Paypal or want more options for payment processing.

If Paypal works then use what’s in the box 😊

Thanks everyone, I’m spoiled for choice!

Nothing else seemed to be capable of doing everything I need with 1 system (and no nasty hacks), but it definitely looks like EE can. Time to buy a license and get started!

Cheers,
Dan

Hi Dan,

Nice name, BTW 😉

I’m happy to see you have decided on ExpressionEngine for your needs. We look forward to having you in the Community.

If you have any other questions or need any help along the way, don’t hesitate to start a new thread.

Cheers and welcome aboard!