What Extra Features Would be worth s Subscription Price?

[Hank]

I am looking at creating a tiered level of membership. A system where anyone could register, but they would not be able to use features like private messaging, file attachments, pretty text, avatars and such percs as we have all gotten used to.

I was thinking that $20.00 for 90 days for starters would be a good spot to start.

Once your subscription payment was made, then you would be upgraded to the "ELITE" level and have the ability to do these certain things and more.

Omce your subscription time ran out, you would root back to the basic user level rights that you had before.

Give me some input in thus poll I am starting and let me know what y'all think.

[geebee]

Hank,
I am fine with $25 per quarter. I think $100 or so per year is a reasonable amount and close to what I have already averaged.
I am also OK with the $10/month amount should you feel that having the donations come in monthly would work better for your budgeting.
Thanks for the opportunity to assist.

[Perrster]

Hank,

I wish you all the luck in the world with a Subscription Plan for your website. I completely understand the necessity for you to go this direction.

Unfortunately at this time, other financial commitments and a recent slight sense of job insecurity forces me to bow out gracefully from valvereplacement.com.

Vr.com and all the friends I have personally met through it over the past few years has been an incredible experience and I will never forget you and the heart buddies I have met from it.

You've got a good thing going. Keep it up and good luck.

Yours truly,

[tommy]

Hank,

I hate to be negative, but..............these are candid and intended to let you know what I think and feel.

1. I isn't clear in the poll that free access is available without the "frills". You have to read your post to get the whole picture. Perry's post implies that if he's leaving us rather than pay. But leaving isn't required, you just don't get the "frills". I'm concerned that others may misunderstand this point. This would be very unfortunate.

2. All of the options seem a little $teep to use the extended freatures. 25$ per year sounds more reasonable.

3. Since we have had these "frills" for free, it grates on in me that we now would have to pay. I'll get over it. And new members won't know the difference.

4. Somehow being required to pay doesn't sit as well as free will donations. I've always considered my donations as gifts to you and the VR.com family. I lose a little of that sense of family when I'm required to pay. I'll get past this issue as well.

I'm sure that you have spent a lot of time thinking and perhaps agonizing over this. I guess it has elevated from "hobby" to "business". Hope my comments help you figure this out. I do wish you and all of the VR.com family well. God bless you.

[JimL]

I find the avatars very helpful -- not mine but everyone else's. I think you need to drop the prices considerably so that as many as possible with contribute a nominal amount to have access to some basic features that we have come to take for granted.

[Karlynn]

I'm understanding through this poll that you must be having a hard time keeping things afloat and justifying your time committment with the income of free will donation.

Would the email option be under the "free" membership? I've received PM's from new members, asking important questions they've wished to keep private. If they would still have the ability to send an email, then having PM's be part of the subscription wouldn't be such a hard thing. If email access to members would also be part of the subscription, I think it would seriously inhibit a valuable service to newer members who want information but don't feel comfortable in posting to the entire membership in a forum.

Would a subscription service diminish the family atmosphere? That's an unknown. If I were joining now, I probably would do the free membership for a while - then go to subscription as I develope a relationship (or an addiction :o ) with those in the forums.

If you hadn't created VR, I would not have the peace of mind that I do now. I trust your thoughtful deliberations on this and will support your decision.

[tobagotwo]

As an addition, I think more of the "tasteful" ads, like the QAS ad that tops this page should be allowed. It's income for the site management, and good for the companies, but it's also good for the new members, who could more easily page through the valve manufacturers' offerings.

Basically, most folks do come in and sit down, then leave after dinner. It's the nature of the beast; people generally move on after a crisis. And helping people to do that is part of the value of the site. As such, a three-month trial membership might be an idea. It might be a reduced rate, but it would bring in something from most people, and would continue into longer term membership for some.

There should also be an annual membership available.

I have no problem with contributing to the site and its management at all. I just wonder how we will keep ourselves from becoming separated from the new people who come onto the site, and ensure that they continue to feel welcome.

Best wishes,

[Ross]

I just wonder how we will keep ourselves from becoming separated from the new people who come onto the site, and ensure that they continue to feel welcome.

Best wishes,
Bob the people still using the free part of the forum would blend right in with the rest of the membership. They wouldn't notice any difference as far as posting etc., they just wouldn't have the other perks that paid members would.

Go to http://forums.speedguide.net/index.php?s=

They are running a premium membership deal as well as a free side, but you can see from the postings that you can't tell a paying member from a free member.

These are there perks:

SG Premium Accounts - Services offered.
In addition to our free membership, a SG Premium account provides a great value on a supplementary suite of services, outlined below.


Advanced Security Scan - a constantly updated and enhanced security portscan that detects most current trojans, backdoors and worms. This is an enhanced version of our free portscan that includes many additional tests for an in-depth detailed security analysis of your system.

The SG Advanced Security Audit provides a remote, specialized, objective assessment of your organization's security vulnerabilities. Replace the tedious, inconsistent results of manual testing with a professional, comprehensive tool that can perform real-world attacks and analysis on your network resources, drill down to security risks in your network architecture, and produce test results that point to exactly what can be exploited by intruders.

Benefits of using the SG Advanced Security Scan:
simple online security scans, anytime, anyplace
no special hardware/software needed
very affordable
fully automated
detailled description of problems and solutions
thousands of security checks
checks are permanently kept up to date

In addition to the enhanced Security Scan, Premium membership allows for:
scanning IPs other than your own (provided you have the right to scan them).
scanning a custom port of a range of ports.
choosing protocols to scan for the above custom ports.


Ad Free site and forums - SG premium members get the benefit of NO advertisements of any type while browsing the site and our forums. No more slow-loading banners and intrusive advertisements, just fast loading streamlined design, as it was meant to look.

Image hosting - You get 10 MB of storage on our servers with easy and fast web based management of user files. The benefit of having your images hosted at members.speedguide.net - lightning fast servers, unlimited and unmetered bandwidth ! (sample screenshot)

SG site support - Last but not least: by subscribing you will also help us maintain and further develop this site, as well as our free programs and tools for the benefit of all broadband users. If you like what you see, if you find our tools useful and want to support us, sign up for a premium account.

[EVELYN]

Hi Hank

Just throwing this idea out: What about Coaguchek and Protime getting hit up for sponsorships. They certainly are used by our members and it's only an advertising expense to them. MHO is that advertising would be welcome to keep this site running for free for all of those who use it. I'm sure there are many here who would not be able to continue if they were charged a membership fee. I would suggest looking into advertisers.

JMHO.

Evelyn

[Mary]

I'm sorry-- you lost me in that last post Ross. Do you mean that a member who paid for a premium membership would have the ability to scan for viruses, trojans, etc while on VR? Or will the site itself be doing it to protect everyone?
Will this become a paying job for whomever is the administrator/ or assistant?
I noticed that Speedguide does have an ad running at the top, and I found it very distracting. Did I see it because I'm not a paying member, and if I were, it wouldn't be there when I visited?
Can you help a nonsavvy computer person such as myself with these questions?
Mary

[Ross]

Talk about loading time- sometimes the loading time, like on Ross’s b’day thread from all the “cards” is too much for my slow connection! Maybe we should pay a small fee to load pix! (in my case, pay a small fee to not have them load! ;) )
Just so you know, you can go to your control panel, edit options and uncheck show images as it is now. For those on dial up, this may be something they want to consider.

Visible Post ElementsYou have the option to show or hide various elements of messages, which may be of use to users on slow internet connections, or who want to remove extraneous clutter from posts.
Show Signatures
Show Avatars
Show Images (including attached images and images in [IMG] code)

[Hank]

Hi All,

Please know that this is just a fishing expedition for information which several of you have provided. Thank you so much for your input thus far...

There will ALWAYS be access to ValveReplacement.com for no charge whatsoever. I have always believed that the same information should be available to everyone equally.

I am only exploring the possibility of offering more to those who are interested and to see if anyone would be willing to pay for the frills.

Keep the input coming.... I am listening....

[Ross]

I'm sorry-- you lost me in that last post Ross. Do you mean that a member who paid for a premium membership would have the ability to scan for viruses, trojans, etc while on VR? Or will the site itself be doing it to protect everyone?
Will this become a paying job for whomever is the administrator/ or assistant?
I noticed that Speedguide does have an ad running at the top, and I found it very distracting. Did I see it because I'm not a paying member, and if I were, it wouldn't be there when I visited?
Can you help a nonsavvy computer person such as myself with these questions?
Mary
Mary I'm only using speedguide as an example. Since this forum doesn't deal with computer tech stuff, I wouldn't expect to be running any fancy scans or much anything that they do. It's simply to show what the difference is to a paying customer vs the free man at that site. On the site, you cannot distinguish between paying or free members. Only the paid members know who they are. They see no ads, have space on the webserver, and the other mentioned things.

[Mary]

Thanks for clarifying, Ross. :)

[tobagotwo]

Somewhat off the subject of dues, but still income...

The more I look at it, a redesign of the upper portion of this page allows room for about six more "quiet" ads the size of the CoaguCheck ad that's there now. St. Jude, Medtronic, MCSI (On-X), Edwards Lifesciences, Carbomedics, various drug companies.

Or even a smaller, spreadsheet-style area of small rectangles that might not be big enough for much more advertising than a name, but would take the member there if they click on them. And, of course, the companies would have to pay to be in the click-'n'-look list.

[Granbonny]

Great idea about a quiet ad...For starters...How about BARR......who ..manufacture MY Warfarin..(Coumadin)...3 years on it now..No problems......... We have MANY members taking THEIR brand......and I know (3,464) posts on Vr.com.....that we have many mech. valvers..having to be on Warfarin(coumadin)....and I feel like..Most are on the Barr manufactuing brand......of warfarin (coumadin)............They would reap a good deal of interest..for those coming up with having to have a mech. valve..Bonnie

[Abbanabba]

It's always a tricky issue..... As others have mentioned here already, many people find this site when they are facing surgery and that usually means their income has been affected in some way. And, as Bob noted, there are also a significant number of people who will only be around for a short time as they are going through their surgery woes. I can see where monthly memberhsip is valid for short-term users, but for those of us who are financially restricted through loss of income, it does make it hard (..and there is a certain level of guilt about not being able to contribute - like it or not..).

There are also other questions I have about non-US users. Another forum I belong to allows you to claim contributions as a tax refund, but those of us who are not US citizens don't neccessarily have this advantage. Conversion rates are also an issue when the US dollar is stronger .... At the moment US$100 is around AU$140, and that might not seem much over the course of a year, but it is when you have no income (and when you don't benefit from reunions, or information pertaining soley to the US, or other benefits US members may enjoy as being part of this group).

I appreciate Hank's reiteration that the site will always be available to members and non-members, and I also appreciate that it does cost money to keep such a great site available.

I don't have any issues with increased advertising - it's a sad reality of the times we live in anyway! If anyone else has any ideas on how to raise money without relying on donations or compulsary fees I'm sure we'd all like to hear them.

Hank - thanks for allowing us to voice our opinons and thanks for such a wonderful site.

Cheers
Anna : )

[ALCapshaw2]

Hank: You asked for it so here is my 'concern' about requiring membership dues:

MANY newcomers check in with the usual reactions and concerns after being told "you need Valve Replacement Surgery". After various amounts of interaction, education, preparation, and recovery, they move on with their lives. These would be characterized as SHORT TERM members.

MANY old timers stick around for the camaraderie and occassional issues but most of their posts are CONTRIBUTIONS in TIME, KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE, and RESEARCH. These LONG TERM members are the BACKBONE of VR.com.

Under a mandatory dues system, the LONG TERM PROVIDERS of SUPPORT and INFORMATION would be paying the majority of the dues while the BENEFICIARIES of this experience would pay considerably LESS.

I suspect many of the Long Term PROVIDERS would start to make a cost / benefit analysis and may decide it simply is not a justifiable expense and DEPART. Their departure would have a SEVERE IMPACT on the mission of VR.com

'AL Capshaw'

[geebee]

I think a few folks are getting angry about a proposal. Hank never said he was definitely going to change things, he is looking at the possibility.

In addition, there will still be the ability to participate without charge. Most of the items Hank referred to are "behind the scenes" things that no one would notice should someone stop using them.

Hank, a suggestion should you decide to make changes, how about leaving avatars as part of the "freebies" so there is not an apparent change for those who cannot afford membership fees. Someone's avatar disappearing would definitely point to that person as not paying. I think we do not want to drive people away because we create a scenario where they are identified as non-paying.

Many folks simply do not have extra money. I am sure a great many of our very active members fall into that category. I would hate to lose their experience and contributions.

I am fortunate that I am able to contribute and I want to do so because of what I get from the website and what I hope I contribute to others. I do not need to know what it costs to run VR.com because, right now, it is a private enterprise. I do not believe Hank is making a living running VR.com but, even if he is, more power to him for starting this haven for scared and searching people.

Let's try to focus on coming up with a scenario that works for everyone and not take suggestions so personally. I am sure everyone would (and will) contribute financially once they are in a position to do so.

[M&M]

Hi, I just read all the posts and I find this web site to be wonderful. :D I really can't say enough wonderful things about the people and administration. I'm sure its not easy to keep it up and running and no doubt it takes alot of time to keep it up and running. Of which I greatly appreciate.

I would like to say that when my In-Network Provider did not have a supplier for my ProTime testing kits - I recommended to them that I should be allowed to go to QAS - as I heard wonderful things about the service they provided and they were a reputable company - of which my insurance provider never heard of... I would think QAS should make a huge donation for the about of publicity it gets off this web site.

I'll be taking that rat poison and testing probably for the rest of my life and the way I test - they'll make a bundle for many years. Had I not found this web site - I would surely have tried to find a supplier closer to home (NH) than buying out of Florida - but like I said I heard such wonderful things about this company - on this web site - and so my insurance allowed me to use them as a In-Network Provider. Lance was wonderful and helpful to me as well. But they are getting alot of publicity out of this web site.

I think everytime I buy test kits - they should make a donation to this web site. Testing is not cheap.. and I'd like to think I've helped to provide for this web site - by purchasing my test kits there. I personally think they can't buy that kind of advertisement anywhere - like this site provides.. They are lucky people come and read it - if you ask me..

I'm also sad to say if I paid everytime I visited a web site - I'd be broke.. and I use alot of them - from time to time - but I can't afford to pay..

I hope I don't sound to mean - but I can't afford it..

Best Wishes
Marilyn (runner)

[Johnny Stephens]

VR.com was there for me when I needed it 3 years ago. I believe Hank has gone above and beyond to make this resource available. I feel that it's totally fair for Hank to do what he wishes with the site and its business direction.

Given the intimacy and small size of the group, I'm sensitive to any bruised feelings that this approach may cause by exposing people's individual financial situations. This may work for huge sites where the membership isn't so closely bonded (a' la Speedguide), but we're like family here.

That said, at $80 / year, VR.com would be the most expensive *by far* of several sites I belong to, including professional IT organizations. Since my level of participation has tailed off recently, I would probably select either the free access or a much less-expensive Tier of features, if one is made available.

I favor the managed advertising approach, if it can be made to work.

Just my 2 cents.

[Ben Smith]

I have spent time with Hank on two (2) separate occasions. And YES, Hank is as honest as they come. There is ZERO doubt in my mind that Hank is in a 'need' situation to even bring this subject to the forefront.

So if anyone is questioning Hank's integrity, END IT.....there is NO question !!

Now with my opinion. I have been around this group since before it was actually VR.com.....back when it was an email list serve group. There have been many changes, most for the better of the entire group. (And I don't think there are too many of us left from that original group, maybe five to seven)

This group has been there for me in many ways. Obviously when I was facing my surgery back in 2000. And almost on a bi-weekly basis to this day....to encourage me in many aspects of my life.

The person I see as one of my best friends was a result of my OHS, and I introduced him to this site. He has contributed more to the 'posts' than I have, yet I do not feel inferior to anyone based on the number of posts they have here. (However, some folks do)

Many of us have brought many new people to this site. Whether they stayed after they met their need or not, wasn't a concern of ours. We just offered a group to support to them in their time of need.

Before anyone gets their 'panties in a bunch' let's all take a look at this situation.

I agree with Perry......if I am forced to pay, I will probably quit coming to the site. (As you can see from my # of posts, I do not post often.) ( But, I am here basically daily to keep up on things. I post only when I am sure my basic opinion has not already been stated or when it is a subject that is close to my soul) Forcing payment will be a large detriment to this site !!

I also agree with Mark Wagner.....if you are asking for donations, you must show the financial's to justify the end to the means. Every not-for-profit group has to answer for the money they have and where it is being spent. This type of management would not be from one or two people, but it would have to include a larger number (10 to 15 or so) of the membership, ranging from olde-timers like me to new-bee's. This is a law in almost every state. I am no expert, yet I am sure the Fed's have their eyes on this type of 'not-for-profit' groups.

Hank, I do not envy the position you are in.....maybe the easiest route is to allow the advertisements that I know you have an uncomfortable feeling with.

My basic opinion is to be sure that NO PERSON miss the opportunity to question this group and get advice from this wonderful assemblage......FOR FREE !!

If I would have had to pay to become involved here back in 2000, I am not sure I would have....knowing the large financial strain that OHS has on each of us.

I will support your decision Hank. Yet, I reserve the right to remove myself as a VR.com founding member.

God Bless to each and every one of you.

You all are in my daily prayers.

Respectfully,

Ben Smith

[tobagotwo]

When we buy war materiel, we expect the corporation that manufactures it to make a huge profit. Yet when an organization helps us and supports us, we feel it's somehow morally wrong for it to be even slightly profitable. Something's askew with that picture.

Do we send emails to Northrup complaining about their windfall profits from the war in Iraq (from our tax dollars, no less)? Yet when Hank mentions he would like to eke a living out of this beautiful thing that he has created, we question his motives and put him under a microscope. That doesn't make sense to me.

Some can't contribute, and that's important to know. Needs a loophole of some sort. Some won't contribute, or will only contribute 1/2 of amount X. That's good information, too.

But if people think that someone shouldn't be able to make a living from an idea that has helped nearly everyone it has touched...well, maybe they should examine why it is that they feel that way.

Actually, I didn't see that Hank said it was intended to be set up as a non-profit or not-for-profit organization at all. And I don't see anything wrong with it if it's not. If the membership is happy, what would be served by everyone huddling over Hank's finances and discussing what they think is appropriate for his family. None of my business, I say.

No matter what way he goes, I think Hank should consider incorporating to protect himself financially. Then he could go after a non-profit status, if he thinks it's obtainable. I believe donations to not-for-profit corporations are not tax deductible, so there is limited value in that status.

Or hell, list it and sell stock. Keep 51%, Hank.

If I understand it (and I may not), if Hank incorporates but stays private, and doesn't go for any special status, he doesn't have to report finances to anyone but the tax people and owners (himself & spouse). Annual public reporting requirements would go with any other status, I think.

My thought about donations is that at this point, those who can, should. Those who can't, try to relax - we gotcha covered.

Let's help Hank with some more ideas, folks. There's no reason we can't work this out for all of us, if we think hard enough.

Best wishes,

[knightfan2691]

NOTE...I noticed several comments I wanted to quote/respond to, but as is sometimes the case, one of the last ones caught my attention the most....

That's what is wrong with this country, no one questions a damn thing anymore but goes along with the flow.

*nods*

Chevrolet (FWD malibu, impala & monte carlo...please, don't insult my intelligence), the Tribune Co (owners of the Cubs for 20 years...have claimed they've always wanted a winning team on the N side of Chicago, but unless I've slept through a year, I haven't seen it yet) and NBC 5 Chicago (hired Jerry Springer to get rid of the best news team in town, Ron Magers and Carol Marin)...and I'm sure other companies...have all masterly marketed themselves based on the fact that people go with the flow...and don't question things.

I've seen a couple websites go the way of what Hank is questioning in this thread. Unfortunately, just as the case here, some of the discussion has turned a bit not so nice. In one case, the entire thing was shut down...and has not been revitalized.

That written, I don't think this is where VR.com is heading...at least, I hope it isn't. It has been too much of a "godsend" for many people...and has given some of us a chance to meet "real live" people that have the same issues we do. And not just meeting once a lifetime; I mean several times a year in some cases...and even become friends.

Hank...not sure if I missed it in this thread or elsewhere, but what about more advertising? Maybe offer hospitals/cardiologists a "member list". I know I've seen threads asking about cardiologists, etc., in such'n'such an area. Maybe we offer hospitals/cardiologists a chance to be listed here as reference...?

I'm willing to pay...but not for "extra features". I'd much rather do like I've been doing and giving as I'm able...and just know that the funds are appreciated. I don't need "extra features" as a membership perk or a "thank you" for helping out in this fine venture.


Cort, "Mr MC" / "Mr Road Trip", 31swm/pig valve/pacemaker
'72,6,9/'81,7.hobbies.chdQB = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/
MC Guide = http://www.chevyasylum.com/mcspotter/main.html
MC's future = http://www.projectmonte.com/petition/
To buy Dodge Charger or to buy Ford Mustang...THAT is the Q
"Most Complete Lineup," Chevy claims in ad ... but how?
What's it like to buy your favorite car brand new? Wish I knew...

[geebee]

Well, Mark, I am a "smell the roses" kind of person. I don't give my money to just anyone and I have seen what I get for my money. Lots of good feelings, good advice and the ability to help others.

There has been no statement claiming Hank has made any profits from this website. My comments have only been that I don't give a hoot if he does or not. And if you think people don't make a profit from people searching and hurting, you must not be familar with the whole world of psychology.

I have absolutely no doubt that Hank started this website with the intention of helping people and not to make money. I believe it has continued because of a great number of people who give without expecting anything in return and thus getting back even more. Some of those people give their time, some can give money but it is a website filled with good intentions.

I don't care if everyone pays dues or not, it will not affect my intentions to do so. And I am not a legal expert so I do not know what is required or not when it comes to posting finances.

The biggest concern I have is Hank getting disgusted with such demands and stopping this site altogether. That would be a sad day indeed. Please try to see this thread as I do - merely a fact-finding mission and not a "pay up or get out" proposition.

Thanks.

[Ben Smith]

Just to clarify anything I said that may have been missconstrude.

First, I assumed Hank was speaking not-for-profit. I shouldn't have and appologize. (I thought Hank had to set VR.com up that way at this juncture)

Secondly, It wouldn't bother me in the least to see Hank get some $$ for his time.

Last, I guess what 'got my goat' more than anything was he 'pay for extra features' portion of the question. I have donated to the site and have for some time. I haven't in a while simply due to some personal reasons, not due to any problem I have with this site or any money Hank receives or how he uses it.

God Bless and have a safe day.

Ben Smith

[MelissaM]

Just to throw in my $.02, I currently make my living helping others do internet marketing and would be happy to advise Hank on some of the models/methods out there. From what I've seen, Hank has been dabbling in some of them. The question is whether or not these efforts could be ratcheted up to produce the funds needed to keep the site active.

Good, bad, or otherwise, content on the Internet is typically free. A few exceptions are archived news stories and some news sites, but by and large, content is free. Which is why (I believe) individuals blanche when presented with the idea of paying for content.

The content is free because most of the content sites aggregate large volumes of users that they can segment into demographic profiles attractive to advertisers. They then sell pretty much everything based on the user profiles they collect. A few ways these types of sites garner advertising dollars:

- Sales of banner advertising
This has been the most discussed here, but is not as cut and dried as it might look. Banner advertising is one of the least effective means of advertising on the 'Net (surprising, given the amount we see, heh?). Typically, advertising is aggregated and distributed through huge ad networks, such as Double Click. In order to truly implement advertising on a large scale on VR.com, we would have to join a network and accurately state our demographic profile. Most likely, we would then be able to get pharmaceutical ads, etc, served. If we joined a larger network, they would be able to track it. We have a niche site and this could be a viable alternative, it would just take a bit of time to get set up. The alternative is to have Hank knock on individual companies doors and try to get them to advertise - not very cost effective.

- Sales of leads
This involves the sale of personal information to interested companies. Pretty much all of the "get more information" forms on the internet use this technique. On the front end, you fill out the form to get more information on mortgages, insurance, whatever, and on the backend, your information is being sold to insurance companies, mortgage brokers, etc, for so many $$ per lead.

- Becoming part of Google & Overture's content network
This is a pretty benign form of internet advertising. VR.com would display relevant search ads along side of its content and receive a small commission when someone clicked on the ad.

There are other types of Internet marketing, the above represents a few. If there are other internet marketers on the forum, feel free to pipe up. Again, I would be happy to have a conversation with Hank or others re: some of the options VR.com has relative to making $$ on the internet.

Regards,
Melissa

[tobagotwo]

I mixed together two notions in the post, and should qualify them. As far as VR.com is concerned, when I was discussing "making a profit," I was mentally equating it with "eking out a living," as there are really no great profits to be reaped here. I realize in retrospect that those phrases usually have very different connotations for people.

This thread was about charging for "extras," rather than basics, so I hope I've not pushed it too far off track. And Ben, the post was generic and not in response to yours: it just posted in that order. I hadn't read yours yet when I posted, as I was still writing mine.

Although I don't entirely share it with you, I can see now where your point of view can be reasonable, Mark. Certainly your extensive work with charity causes would lean towards that view. Fortunately, if there is any status of non-profit or not-for-profit, that will (I believe) take care of itself anyway with public reporting.

I guess my angle is that I would like to see it become worth Hank's while to continue this, although I believe he would whether it was or not. I think I want to see good things go to people who do good things, and this was a handy place to plant my flag.

Best wishes,

[ShezaGirlie]

Way to go Melissa...!

[Karlynn]

I, for one, would love to see advertisements aimed at our particular needs. There's the obvious INR testing companies. But what about companies that offer in-home exercise equipment, Vitamins (that don't contain K), heart smart diet companies, etc, etc. ?

[Granbonny]

They advertise on the home page already..Sponsored by QAS..Also, a flashing ad under all threads... :confused: Bonnie

[MelissaM]

Hank may already know of this outlet, but it is an ad serving network that specializes in handling online advertisements for specialty sites like VR.com

http://www.burstmedia.com/

[tobagotwo]

No offense at all to the advertising trade, Melissa, but I would pay to NOT have my personal information forwarded to marketing organizations. ;)

I prefer to respond to the ad, rather than have it respond to me...

Best wishes,

[Hank]

Thank You All for your Input.....

First of all, I want everyone to know that I would NEVER under any circumstance sell anyones private information, email addresses, or any other information for that matter. Nothing is worth that!

Second - This poll has been closed. I value all of your input and thank you for your responses.

There will be some major changes in the coming months on ValveReplacement.com. I am sure that you will all be pleased with these changes. Thanks to the support I have received from so many loyal and generously trusting members (you know who you are), I have made significant progress in my quest to create a site we will all be happy with.

In the coming months, you will begin to see VR.com evolve into the single most valuable resource on the internet for people, physicians and all others for valve replacement surgery information.

The forum will remain unchanged as it is by far the greatest strength we have to offer at this time.

The changes will take place on the main site which you will all want to visit more often in the future. Remember the main site? www.valvereplacement.com ? That is the page that so many of us bypass all the time to get straight to the forum :(

Anyway, keep checking in there or you will miss the evolution! It will be a while before it gets started, but start it will.

Thank you so much to everyone who has been a part of ValveReplacement.com to this point. You are the reason it exists in the first place.

[ccrawford]

Hank - In an earlier email, you mentioned the need to become a valid not-for-profit or 501-c-3 and the expense of doing so. Have you considered polling some of our members who happen to be attorneys to see who may feel like volunteering to do this. It's really not a terribly complex process and one that would not burden an experienced lawyer. Part of this process includes electing a board and adapting bylaws, etc. but this should be viewed as an opportunity for valuable input, not viewed as a burden. Chris

[Mark Wagner]

Hi Hank,
First I want to apologize for being so negative when I first read this post. You have done and continue to do a lot with this web site, and deserve compensation if you so desire for your time and energy. It took me some time to think about it, but I will be the first to admit when I am wrong in my thinking, as hard as that can be sometimes.

Thirty dollars a year on a requested volunteer payment, would be about right in my eyes, and somewhat equivilant to say the other membership organizations. If people can give more or less, then so be it. I really like Melissa thought's in addition to the voluntary payment.


When I get cranky and tired I can really hit the 'key board' hard. I need one of those computers that do not send out my mailing for 24 hours so I can think things over. (Maybe 48 hours!) In any case Hank, can you tell me via private E. mail where to send donations. Money is tight with a family my size and in addition to so many things going on; but as soon as I can I will do my part. Again I am sorry for being offensive. I hope that is really not who I am inside.

Many thanks Hank. .... Mark

[Hank]

No worries my friend - I took no offense with your post.

I emailed you seperately, but as always, you can visit the following web address for donation information:

http://valvereplacement.com/contributions.htm

Thank you for everything...

[CCRN]

Hank,
I am fine with $25 per quarter. I think $100 or so per year is a reasonable amount and close to what I have already averaged.
I am also OK with the $10/month amount should you feel that having the donations come in monthly would work better for your budgeting.
Thanks for the opportunity to assist.

I was just wondering........is this a not for profit site? Is there a way these dues could be a kind of tax deduction? I'm fine with $25 per quarter but I know as little as that can deter persons with limited means. I think new users should be able to use all services for a week for free. Might want to give a discount for those willing to pay for 6 months to a year at a time. Just a thought.

[hensylee]

Not to worry - everybody can use it all for free at this time. This thread is just to open a discussion for possible changes somewhere down the line. However, if someone is so inclined, they can make a welcome donation - details are on the Home Page (one of those click here thingys). If anybody is not able to make a donation, that's ok, too. EVERYBODY is welcome. Even if there is a change and charge in the future, ValveReplacement.com will still be available in a limited edition to anyone who wishes to enter these halls - at least that's the way it's explained somewhere above. Read the first post in this thread, written by Hank. This subject has been discussed for 2-3 yrs - so don't panic til you see the whites........

[joy]

For some, it wouldn't be the willingness to pay, but the ability to pay anything. There are so many times that we have helped and supported other members when they were in financial trouble. I have also sent some money. I think we should have another t-shirt sale. I would love to get one from 2005-2006! Just a thought...

[TomS]

The site has been a help to me as I went through surgery and I would like to offer some advice since the question is close to where I have spent a good part of my career. Here is my two cents.
1. Keep it free and accessible as it is. What you have created is community.
2. Although the advertising model has not proven to be extremely profitable it is your best approach. Do some research on the "extended needs" of users. What else do they want? Use this to solicit advertisers. Some ideas have already been offered for exercise equipment, medical devices, etc.
3. Look at complementary websites where a partnership arrangement may make sense. Take on the role of THE VALVE site. Talk to major hospitals. Perhaps they have some interest in advertising or funding. There are always questions on which doctors are the best, etc.
4. How about linking to a perscription drug site, or even private branding the offering?
5. I don't think that the audience will ever be large enough on its own to make the site profitable. Consider offering a paid enrollment to a larger medical offering. Use members to refer "customers" that are outside of the valve replacement audience. I am thinking of offering site information on medication, treatments, referral programs, symptom recommendations, things that would appeal both to the current audience and the much larger general public. Your loyal audience is an asset. Possibly give them a one year free subscription for each paid subscription that they bring to you (one year per payee).
6. Collect and collate the links to medical reports and offer them in a more easy to find format for a fee.
7. Find a way through a mailed newsletter to reach the non Internet community. You are skewing to a niche audience of relatively young adults with valvular heart disease. A great target market for coumadin self testing, exercise equipment and other similar offerings, but you are likely not reaching the general population.
8. Use your current community to start "rating" things, like hospitals, tests, doctors, etc. It will be of great value to current customers and start to give you leverage throughout the marketplace, not to mention the huge value to new users.
Best of luck,
Tom

[Hank]

Tom - Thank you very much for all the excellent suggestions.

I have taken all these things into consideration.

While we haven't decided which way to go, the site continues to grow at the rate of about 2-3 members per day.

I also am a firm believer that the site should continue to provide the basic services that it does for free.

So many decisions - so little time.

I do appreciate your words...

Keep the suggestions coming..

[azpam]

If you had a financial committee of 10 people or so, you could have a yearly finance meeting when the yearly reunions occur. that way more people would be shown the "books",gain trust,be a part of the "action" and decision making. it would be a true team club effort. i would not want to see a mandatory fee and also feel QAS,barr,etc could chip in some funds. i would give $$ if i could advertise my website. i am a "little" person in the scheme of things.so maybe a bigger yearly amount for the corporate bigger companies and a smaller level for a small business owner. that way too you would be supporting a "team club" member with your business instead of some one else you might not know. that's great networking!also help build stronger relationships among members who would be more excited to come to the reunions.

[RossGurlie]

Whoa. This is really old. From like two years ago. Did the changes take place? I haven't paid anything.

[MaryC]

Hi Hank,
I don't know if this is still an active discussion since this post is from 2005. I had a suggestion - outside on the ones regarding advertising - which are I think are good! What about doing periodic fund raisers like public TV and radio....maybe once per quarter push for donations? Someone could do the creative and make it some type of heart-related theme. It would be a direct reminder to the members, who appreciate this site so much. If you could get some sponsors, you could offer members gifts (mugs, books etc) based on the level ($) of donation.

[maka]

Hi Hank,
I don't know if this is still an active discussion since this post is from 2005. I had a suggestion - outside on the ones regarding advertising - which are I think are good! What about doing periodic fund raisers like public TV and radio....maybe once per quarter push for donations? Someone could do the creative and make it some type of heart-related theme. It would be a direct reminder to the members, who appreciate this site so much. If you could get some sponsors, you could offer members gifts (mugs, books etc) based on the level ($) of donation.
What about a "calendar of sexy scars":D :D