What is a Community Website?

A community website is the dedicated home base for your members. It houses discussions, resources, and events in one owned space—unlike social platforms where algorithms or policies can change overnight.

Why Build a Community Website

• Control the brand experience, navigation, and content moderation
• Own your member data instead of relying on third-party networks
• Bundle education, community, and offers into a cohesive community business model
• Improve [member retention](</glossary/member-retention>) with easy access to replays, templates, and accountability
• Monetize with paid tiers, membership site upgrades, or event ticketing

Essential Features

• Member accounts with profiles, permissions, and progress tracking
• Discussion spaces organized by topics or cohorts
• Content library for replays, downloads, and SOPs
• Event calendar with RSVPs, reminders, and integrations for live calls
• Automations that welcome new members, spotlight wins, and reactivate lurkers

Platform Options

• All-in-one suites (C revio, Circle, Mighty) with built-in courses and payments
• Forum-first tools (Discourse) for structured knowledge bases
• Chat-centric hubs (Slack, Discord) with add-ons for content and events
• Custom sites built with no-code stacks or bespoke development

Best Practices

• Start simple—launch with core spaces, then layer new channels as engagement grows
• Keep navigation clear; highlight the next best action for each member stage
• Surface community rituals on the homepage (weekly call, current challenge, spotlight)
• Optimize for mobile; many members will join via phone
• Review analytics monthly and adjust your community engagement plan accordingly