Patreon like App Development – A Complete Guide

Living in the era of the internet where almost everything is possible, do you possess a skill that you are an expert at, like playing the guitar, and wish to teach more and more people but need more resources to do so? Or are you someone who bakes fabulous cakes and wants to share this secret? And wish there was a platform that could help you connect with millions of people with limited resources and ease of your place.

Well, there is Patreon, started in 2013, which is a revolutionary platform that helps creators run subscription-based businesses and provides the creators with major business tools, and the viewers can pay and subscribe to the creators by paying different types of subscription plans that can range from standard to premium plans as set by the creator. 

So would you like to build a platform like Patreon and help the creators monetize their content and help the viewers get what is right for them? But you might be wondering if building an app like Patreon is even worth it, well yes, it is

Patreon started almost a decade ago, is worth more than 4 Billion dollars today, and stands with over 225 thousand strong creators and countless platform visitors monthly.

After hearing all this, are you looking to build the same but have no idea how? Well, here is a guide for you 

So without further ado, let us get started.

Statistics of Patreon App: Exploring the Numbers

• The app has over 5 million downloads and a user rating of 4.3 stars.
• The application’s headquarters are in San Francisco, California, USA. 
• The app was launched in 2013, and the concept was created by YouTube musicians Jack Conte and Sam Yam.
• It has approximately 200,000 creators and a fan base of over 6 million people.

The Working of the Patreon: Exploring in Depth

Before you build your subscription-based service app, Patreon has grown in popularity in recent years. Many producers from many genres, such as artists, singers, podcasters, and writers, use it to monetize their content. Here’s a breakdown of how a Patreon-like app works:

Creators Profile 

The first step in establishing a Patreon-like app is allowing creators to create profiles and upload content. Creators can post a wide range of content, such as videos, podcasts, music, artwork, and articles. They can set content goals and offer different reward categories for supporters who donate a particular amount. For example, a creator may provide supporters with exclusive content, early access to content, merchandise, or personalized messaging.

Funding Models/ Subscriptions Tiers 

After creators have created their profiles and uploaded content, they must select a funding plan. Patreon has several fundraising tiers, including monthly memberships and a one-time charge. The most common raising funds approach is monthly subscriptions, in which fans donate a recurring sum to producers each month. Another raising funds strategy is per creation promises, in which supporters pledge a particular amount of money for each piece of material made by the creator. Charge upfront is a model in which supporters are charged for the creator’s content up front.

Support and Rewards 

The step in developing an app like Patreon is to allow fans to make donations to creators. Supporters can choose how much to pledge and which prize tier they want to receive, and Patreon offers multiple reward tiers based on the amount pledged. For example, a $5 monthly pledge may provide access to unique content, but a $10 monthly pledge may provide early access to content and a personalized message from the creator.

Messaging System 

A messaging system is essential to a platform like Patreon that allows creators to communicate with their fans. Creators may send updates, contribute exclusive content, and respond to fan messages. A messaging system produces a sense of connection among creators and fans and encourages platform engagement.

Reporting and analytics

For creators to measure progress and make data-based decisions, analytics, and reporting tools are critical. Creators should have access to statistics such as the number of supporters, monthly revenue, interaction analytics, and content performance through a platform like Patreon. By examining this data, creators may find areas for development, produce better content, and make informed decisions regarding their monetization plan.

Data Management and App Security

Data management and security are crucial for any software, such as Patreon. The platform should prioritize user data security and privacy and comply with best practices for data storage and industry standards. An app like Patreon should integrate authentication and authorization processes, encryption methods, and secure payment pathways to protect user data from cyber threats and incidents.

UI/UX

The user interface and experience of a Patreon app are essential elements in its success. The platform should prioritize a user-friendly and straightforward interface that promotes engagement and creates a feeling of the community. A regular user experience is critical for keeping creators and supporters and growing a loyal user base.

Must have features for an app like Patreon.

While creating apps like Patreon, these apps hold features for all three types of users: the creators, patrons (supporters), and the admin panel; let us explore the parts for all three.

Patron Features 

The list below explains the patron or the supporter’s must-have features integrated into your application. 

Subscription services

Customers can subscribe to their favorite content providers’ latest events and follow them on social media.

Comment or like the artist’s work

Patrons can support a creator by liking and commenting on their content’s publication.

View awards

Donors can view all the awards earned and received by the content creator.

Payment history 

Patrons can pick who to pay while also viewing the payment history.

Change to artists

It makes no difference if a donor has registered as a patron; they should be able to change their profile to that of an artist at any time.

Profile customization

A visitor can register on the application by providing an email address and personal information.

A one-on-one conversation with the content creator

If the subscriber wishes to communicate with the content creator, they can initiate a video or voice call.

Creators Panel

Below we will be discussing the creator’s features that are a must-have and must be integrated into the application.

Creating a profile

The creator must be able to create a profile where they can share the details of their work, what they are there niches and specify about their subscription programme  in the application. 

Reward management

The app allows the artist to send gifts to his fans, and the app integrates features where they can manage the reward system when and to whom to give the reward.

Donor management

The donor management allows the creator to kick any fan they might feel can be a problem and remove them from the subscriber list.

Income management

One of the essential features where the user can track their income and manage the subscription type and see how many donations they have received 

Pop-up notifications

This allows the creators to notify users whenever they create new content.

List of regular visitors

Artists have the right to view and download a list of regular visitors who have subscribed to their work.

Analytics in the app

Artists have the liberty to see the analytics of their content in the application and have a look at the performance, subscribers, and other important information that can help them with their work.

Admin Panel

The admin panel allows the admin of the application to look at various aspects of the application, so let us look at the essential features of the admin panel.

Dashboard

the dashboard is the place from where you can control everything else; the administrator has the right to see the actions and make possible changes if required

Artist guide

The administrator checks the artist profiles before posting them to the application.

Alert Management

The administrator manages all alerts sent to the sponsor or content creator.

Support

The administrator is responsible for responding immediately to requests from users to guide them through the application or any step they might be stuck on

Commission management

The administrator can set a commission percentage for each creator that has been promised or manage the sponsorships.

How to Make an Application like Patreon: The Essentials Steps

After understanding the application’s features and the types of panels required, let us discuss the steps needed to build the application.

Step #1: Market Research 

Before launching or making any application, it is essential to conduct in-depth market research and understand the trends that need to be catered to the audience; since are already major applications that exist in the market, it is important to add features that make your app stand out and also cater to a specific audience, region, and place to make your app grow and generate great revenue.

Step #2: Designing and Development of App

This is the starting stage of the app development, where you start with the basic development of the app. The site’s design will directly affect the consumer’s perception and desire to return, so make everything as trendy easy, and vibrant as possible. The first stage is to develop an initial style. The second stage is creating specifics such as an account login form, profile management, chat, payments, settings, management, accounts, messages, etc.

Step #3: Front-End Development

You are responsible for creating and carrying out the user interface and experience for the app’s front-end development. This involves creating responsive web pages, improving the app’s performance, and engaging with the backend team to ensure seamless feature integration. You’d also need to be current on the newest front-end technologies and best practices and have a solid understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. In this role, attention to detail and a user-centric approach are essential for success.

Step #4: Back-End Development

As a backend developer, your main objective would be to design and build the server-side infrastructure that supports the app. This includes establishing APIs, implementing and managing databases, and ensuring the security and scalability of the app’s backend. You must be knowledgeable in programming languages such as Java, Python, or Node.js and database management systems such as MySQL or MongoDB. Collaboration with the front-end team is critical to ensuring easy feature integration and a consistent user experience. In this profession, attention to detail and a problem-solving approach are necessary.

Step #5: Testing 

After the app’s development with all the important integration, the testing is crucial since it helps you understand the element that needs more work and what changes need to be implemented in the app. You need to hire a full team of app testers to look into the app and run an analysis.

Step #6: App Deployment 

After the app has been created with proper testing and the full app is complete, the final stage is to deploy it on the play store and app store, where the user can download and review the app.

Step #7: App Support 

This is an optional yet important step because providing after-app services can make your application trustable and provide the required support to its users.

Essential Tech Stack for Building an App Like Patreon 

Before building any application, it is important to understand the tech stack or the basic building blocks required to build a subscription-based application; below is the list required.

Front-End Development Code

ReactJS

ReactJS is a JavaScript library to build dynamic user interfaces for web applications. In building an app like Patreon, ReactJS can create reusable components, handle state changes, and render views efficiently. It can also facilitate data management, server communication, and routing.

Back-End Development Code

NodeJS

Node.js is a JavaScript runtime built on Chrome’s V8 engine to build server-side applications. In building an app like Patreon, Node.js can handle requests, manage databases, and implement authentication and authorization. It can also enable real-time communication with users, handle file uploads, and scale efficiently using event-driven, non-blocking I/O.

Android App Development

Kotlin

Kotlin is a statically typed programming language used for building cross-platform applications. In building an app like Patreon, Kotlin can be used to write concise, readable, and safe code, handle complex business logic, and implement scalable architecture patterns. It can also provide robust error handling, facilitate asynchronous programming, and integrate with Java-based libraries and frameworks.

iOS App Development

Swift 

Swift is a programming language used to develop iOS and macOS applications. In building an app like Patreon, Swift can handle user input, manage user authentication and authorization, and implement payment processing. It can also facilitate server communication, handle multimedia content, and enable real-time notifications and updates.

DevOps

Amazon Web Services 

Amazon Web Services (AWS) provides various cloud-based services for building and hosting web applications. In building an app like Patreon, AWS can provide scalable infrastructure, storage, and compute resources. It can also facilitate the app’s deployment, monitoring, and management. AWS Lambda and API Gateway can also be used for serverless architectures.

Designing 

Sketch 

The sketch is a vector graphics editor used to design interfaces and digital assets for web and mobile applications. In building an app like Patreon, Sketch can be used to create wireframes, mockups, and high-fidelity designs for user interfaces, icons, and illustrations. It can also facilitate collaboration with designers and developers and export assets in various formats.

Conclusion 

Building an app like Patreon can be a challenging yet rewarding process. It requires a well-planned strategy, an experienced team of developers, and cutting-edge technology to bring the app to life. In this process, several key factors are to consider, such as the app’s functionality, user interface, security, scalability, and data management.

One of the critical aspects of building an app like Patreon is choosing the right technology stack. ReactJS and Node.js are two popular choices for building web applications due to their scalability, flexibility, and robustness. Additionally, Sketch can be used to create wireframes and designs for user interfaces and digital assets.

Understanding the target audience, business goals, and revenue model is essential to ensure the app’s success. Patreon’s success can be attributed to its focus on creators, flexible funding models, and community-driven approach. Similarly, an app like Patreon should prioritize creators’ needs, offer a variety of funding models, and foster a strong community of supporters.

In conclusion, building an app like Patreon requires a combination of technical expertise, business acumen, and creativity. At Idea Usher, we have a team of experienced developers who specialize in ReactJS and Node.js and are well-equipped to handle the challenges of building an app like Patreon. If you want to develop an app like Patreon, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Let’s make your dream app a reality.

FAQ’s

Q. What are the key features to include when building an app like Patreon?

A. An app like Patreon should include features that cater to the needs of creators and their supporters. These features may include creator profiles, funding models, rewards and perks for supporters, a messaging system for creators and supporters, analytics and reporting tools, and robust data management. Additionally, it is essential to create an intuitive and easy-to-use user interface that enhances the user experience and fosters engagement.

Q. How can I ensure the security of my app, like Patreon? 

A. Ensuring the security of your app, like Patreon, is crucial to protect user data and maintaining trust in your platform. You can implement several measures, such as authentication and authorization systems, encryption protocols, secure payment gateways, and regular security audits. It’s also important to follow best practices for data storage, user privacy, and compliance with industry regulations. By prioritizing security and privacy, you can build trust with your users and ensure the longevity of your platform.

Q. How can I monetize my app like Patreon?

A. Several monetization models exist for an app like Patreon, including a percentage-based commission on creators’ earnings, subscription fees, transaction fees, and premium features for creators and supporters. Choosing a monetization model that aligns with your business goals and provides value to your users is crucial. Additionally, it is essential to maintain transparency and communicate your monetization strategy clearly to your users to build trust and loyalty.

Q. What development approach should I follow when building an app like Patreon?

A. Agile development methodologies like Scrum or Kanban are ideal for building complex web applications like Patreon. These methodologies enable an iterative, collaborative approach to development, frequent testing and feedback, and flexibility to adapt to changing requirements. An agile development approach can reduce development time, minimize errors, and deliver a high-quality product that meets user needs.

Q. How can I ensure the scalability of my app, like Patreon?

A. Ensuring the scalability of your app, like Patreon, is crucial to handle traffic spikes and accommodate growth. You can use cloud-based hosting services like AWS or Google Cloud to scale resources. Additionally, you can implement caching mechanisms, load balancing, and horizontal scaling to improve performance and efficiency. By prioritizing scalability, you can ensure your platform can handle increasing traffic and maintain a seamless user experience.