In a bid to strengthen the bond between creators and their fanbase, Patreon has introduced a native chat feature. This feature allows creators to connect directly with their patrons in a group message, giving them more control over communication and community building.
A New Era of Community Building
Patreon’s integration with Discord has been a game-changer for many creators and their fans. However, not everyone is comfortable using external platforms or apps. With the new chat feature, Patreon aims to provide an in-app solution that allows creators to manage their communities without relying on third-party services.
A Simpler Alternative
According to Jack Conte, CEO of Patreon, "Discord is amazing, but we’re going to continue to support our partnership and integration with Discord." However, he acknowledges that some creators and their fans may not be familiar with Discord or prefer a simpler solution. The new chat feature addresses this concern by providing an in-app messaging system that’s easy to use.
Functionality and Customization
While the chat feature is not as comprehensive as Discord’s functionality, it offers a range of features that cater to creators’ needs. At launch, creators will be able to create up to four different chats, each with its own specific purpose. For example, a cooking vlogger might have one chat for fans to share recipes, another for discussing new uploads, and a third for posting pictures of food.
Moderation and Control
To ensure that the chat feature is safe and welcoming for all users, Patreon has implemented moderation controls. Creators will be able to handle moderation themselves at first, with fans able to report comments if they feel they are being harassed or bullied. In the future, creators will also be able to appoint moderators to help manage their communities.
Fan Profiles and Customization
Fans can also customize their own profiles on Patreon, which will display information such as:
- How long they’ve been a patron of a particular creator
- What other communities they’re part of
- A photo, name, and bio
This feature allows fans to showcase their engagement with creators and connect with like-minded individuals.
A Native Solution
While the chat feature is not a replacement for Discord, it offers an alternative solution that’s native to Patreon. This means that creators can manage their communities without having to navigate external platforms or apps.
The Future of Community Building
With the introduction of the native chat feature, Patreon is poised to revolutionize the way creators connect with their fanbase. By providing a simple and intuitive messaging system, Patreon is giving creators more control over community building and monetization opportunities.
Patreon’s Vision for the Creator Economy
As the creator economy continues to evolve, platforms like Patreon are playing an increasingly important role in supporting creators’ financial needs. With its native chat feature, Patreon is further solidifying its position as a leading platform for creators and their fans.
Conclusion
The introduction of Patreon’s native chat feature marks an exciting new chapter in community building and creator-fan relationships. By providing a simpler alternative to Discord and other external platforms, Patreon is empowering creators to connect directly with their fans and build more engaging communities.
What do you think about Patreon’s new chat feature? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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