Let's Show Them The Money!

In the introductory post to this blog I said that I want to raise money to pay TypePad to make changes to the platform. Why? Because it shows commitment. I think it is reasonable for paying users to band together and request specific features as an extension of the dues they've already paid. But I also think that those features are a lot more likely to be implemented much more quickly if there's an incentive. Money talks, you know.

The reason money talks isn't always avarice… it's also about reciprocity, respect, and a display of truly valuing the item or service in question. The online community loves free stuff, and I'm no exception, but when you make the decision to shell out cold hard cash for something it's a sign that you take it seriously. I don't think TypePad needs the money, particularly. What they need is to believe that these are features users put a priority on.

When I first had this idea, I wasn't even certain TypePad would be willing to take money for specific development… Sometimes, it's not really possible to fit things into a balance sheet in a way that makes sense, so it becomes easier to turn money down. But then I read the following: 

Private-labeled TypePad portals are available for customers looking to publish a large number of blogs (50 or more). In addition to customized templates and screens, additional administrative features are included.

I found this in the lower left corner of the description of TypePad's new Business Class service. I've requested further info, but have not yet heard back from them.

It certainly sounds like they are willing to deal for cash. And I don't think it would be that hard to find over fifty paying users who like enough of the design ideas I've put forth (or have their own) that they are willing to collectivize and make something happen. It would appear that it might be possible to get custom templates written for a fairly reasonable rate. I had kind of figured that with my list of 40 things I'd like to see change, I would have to raise enough to pay an extra full-time coder for a year (that is, if TypePad even responds to the ideas).

So it may be easier than I thought to make this work. Of course, there are a lot of issues that go along with raising money and those will have to be addressed. I'll make a start on that in my next post.

Tags: typepad, Six Apart, blog, movabletype, blogs, blogging, business, web2.0, typekey, weblogs, design, collaboration, typelist, hacks, typepadhacks

Comments

[Posted: Mar 17, 2006 11:29:44 AM]

Count me in! I'll pay.

[Posted: Mar 17, 2006 12:48:20 PM]

Ivan, That's good to hear! I think this thing has got some legs!