Taylor MunsellWhether you're a small business owner, a large enterprise, a nonprofit organization, or an educational institution, finding the right community platform can be a game-changer for building strong connections and nurturing a thriving community.
Let’s delve into the world of community platforms, exploring their features, benefits, and the best options available.
Table of Contents
- Best Community Platforms
- 1. Discourse
- 2. Vanilla Forums
- 3. Lithium
- 4. Hivebrite
- 5. Discord
- 6. Salesforce Community Cloud
- 7. Facebook Groups
- 8. Slack
- 9. LinkedIn Groups
- 10. Mighty Networks
- What Is a Community Platform?
- How Does a Community Platform Work?
- Who Should Use Community Platforms?
- Types of Community Platforms
- How To Choose the Right Community Platform:
- FAQs
We offer this website completely free to our visitors. To help pay the bills, we’ll often (but not always) set up affiliate relationships with the top providers after selecting our favorites. However, we do our best not to let this impact our choices. There are plenty of high-paying companies we’ve turned down because we didn’t like their product.
An added benefit of our relationships is that we always try to negotiate exclusive discounts for our visitors.
Best Community Platforms
1. Discourse
Discourse is a robust open-source community platform that excels in creating engaging and interactive online communities. Its user-friendly interface and active developer community make it a popular choice. Discourse offers discussion forums, user profiles, real-time updates, notifications, and moderation tools. It also supports integration with popular third-party tools and offers extensive customization options.
Features:
- Discussion forums with threaded conversations.
- User profiles with badges and trust levels.
- Real-time updates and notifications.
- Tagging and categorization of topics.
- Gamification features like badges and achievements.
- Powerful moderation tools.
- Integration with popular tools and plugins.
- Customizable themes and branding options.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface and intuitive navigation.
- Active and helpful developer community.
- Extensive customization options.
- Advanced moderation tools for community management.
- Scalable and adaptable to various community sizes.
- Integration with popular third-party tools.
Cons:
- Initial setup may require technical expertise.
- Limited built-in analytics and reporting capabilities.
Pricing Information:
Discourse is an open-source platform, which means it is free to download and use. However, hosting, maintenance, and additional customization may involve costs. Various hosting providers offer Discourse hosting plans with pricing ranging from around $20 to $200 per month, depending on the chosen plan and additional services.
2. Vanilla Forums
Vanilla Forums is a versatile community platform suitable for both small businesses and large enterprises. It provides a feature-rich environment to create engaging and interactive communities. Vanilla Forums offers features like discussion forums, user profiles, gamification elements, social media integration, and analytics. Its customization options allow organizations to align the platform with their branding and specific requirements.
Features:
- Discussion forums with various post types (questions, polls, ideas).
- User profiles with badges, avatars, and reputation systems.
- Gamification elements, such as points, ranks, and badges.
- Social media integration for easy sharing and login.
- Advanced moderation and spam control tools.
- Analytics and reporting capabilities.
- Customizable themes and layouts.
- Single Sign-On (SSO) integration with other platforms.
Pros:
- Versatile features suitable for different community types.
- User-friendly interface and intuitive administration tools.
- Comprehensive moderation and spam control options.
- Social media integration for broader reach.
- Flexible customization options for branding and design.
- Robust analytics and reporting capabilities.
Cons:
- Some advanced features require higher-tier plans.
- Customization options may require technical expertise.
Pricing Information:
Vanilla Forums offers various pricing plans to cater to different needs. The starting price for small communities is around $600 per month, while larger enterprises may have customized pricing based on their requirements. Additional services like custom development and dedicated support may incur extra costs.
3. Lithium
Lithium, known as Khoros Community, is a powerful community platform trusted by major brands for its scalability and comprehensive features. It offers a range of tools and functionalities to create and manage thriving online communities. Lithium provides discussion forums, user profiles, content management, social media integration, and advanced moderation tools. Its robust analytics capabilities and personalization options make it a popular choice for enterprise-level communities.
Features:
- Discussion forums with threaded conversations and post reactions.
- User profiles with reputation systems and user badges.
- Content management for organizing and showcasing community content.
- Social media integration for seamless sharing and engagement.
- Advanced moderation tools with automated moderation capabilities.
- Analytics and reporting features to measure community health and engagement.
- Personalization options for tailored user experiences.
- API access for integration with external systems.
Pros:
- Scalable and suitable for large enterprise communities.
- Comprehensive features and tools for community management.
- Advanced moderation and automated moderation capabilities.
- Powerful analytics and reporting capabilities.
- Integration with popular social media platforms.
- Extensive customization and personalization options.
Cons:
- Higher pricing compared to some other community platforms.
- Implementation and customization may require technical expertise.
Pricing Information:
Lithium offers tailored pricing based on individual business needs, making it necessary to contact their sales team for specific pricing details.
4. Hivebrite
Hivebrite is a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) community platform that provides organizations with the tools to create and manage online communities. It offers a wide range of features, making it suitable for alumni networks, professional associations, and businesses. Hivebrite’s features include user profiles, event management, member directories, private messaging, and branding customization options.
Features:
- Customizable community branding and design.
- User profiles with customizable fields.
- Event management and ticketing system.
- Member directories for networking and connections.
- Private messaging and notifications.
- Content and resource sharing.
- Polls, surveys, and feedback options.
- Integration with popular tools and services.
Pros:
- Intuitive user interface and ease of use.
- Comprehensive features for community management.
- Robust event management capabilities.
- Member directories for networking and connections.
- Integration with popular third-party tools and services.
- Mobile-responsive design for seamless user experiences.
Cons:
- Some advanced features require higher-tier plans.
- Limited customization options for certain elements.
- Additional custom development may require technical expertise.
Pricing Information:
Hivebrite offers various pricing plans based on the number of members and the desired features. Prices start around $400 per month for smaller communities, while larger communities or those with more advanced requirements may require custom pricing.
5. Discord
Discord is a popular communication platform originally designed for gamers but has expanded to cater to diverse communities. It offers real-time text, voice, and video communication, making it ideal for communities that require instant and interactive conversations. Discord provides features like chat channels, voice chat rooms, screen sharing, moderation tools, and customizable roles and permissions.
Features:
- Chat channels for text-based conversations.
- Voice chat rooms for real-time communication.
- Video calls and screen-sharing options.
- Customizable roles and permissions for community members.
- Moderation tools for community management.
- Bots and integrations for additional functionality.
- Mobile and desktop applications for cross-platform access.
Pros:
- Excellent real-time communication capabilities.
- Versatile features for both text and voice-based interactions.
- Customizable roles and permissions for community management.
- Wide range of bot integrations for additional functionality.
- Mobile and desktop applications for convenient access.
Cons:
- Primarily focused on real-time communication, may lack some traditional community features like discussion forums.
- User interface and navigation may be overwhelming for some users.
- Limited analytics and reporting capabilities compared to dedicated community platforms.
Pricing Information:
Discord offers a free plan that includes most of its core features. However, Discord also provides a premium subscription called Discord Nitro, priced at $9.99 per month. This subscription offers additional benefits such as higher quality voice and video, larger file uploads, and custom emoji options.
6. Salesforce Community Cloud
Salesforce Community Cloud is an enterprise-level community platform that integrates with the Salesforce ecosystem. It enables businesses to create branded communities, foster customer engagement, and offer self-service support while leveraging CRM data. Salesforce Community Cloud provides features such as discussion forums, knowledge bases, case management, social collaboration, and analytics.
Features:
- Branded communities with customizable branding and design.
- Discussion forums for engaging conversations.
- Knowledge bases and self-service support resources.
- Case management for customer support.
- Social collaboration features for internal and external stakeholders.
- Integration with Salesforce CRM for enhanced customer insights.
- Analytics and reporting capabilities for measuring community success.
Pros:
- Seamless integration with the Salesforce ecosystem.
- Extensive features for customer engagement and support.
- Customizable branding and design options.
- Robust analytics and reporting capabilities
- Secure and scalable infrastructure.
Cons:
- Pricing may be higher compared to standalone community platforms.
- Implementation and customization may require Salesforce expertise.
Pricing Information:
Salesforce Community Cloud offers various pricing tiers depending on the number of users and required functionalities. Pricing details are available upon request, and organizations need to contact Salesforce for personalized pricing information.
7. Facebook Groups
Facebook Groups is a widely recognized and accessible community platform with a large user base. It allows individuals, businesses, and interest groups to create communities for discussions, collaboration, and networking. Facebook Groups’ features include discussion boards, event creation, file sharing, polls, and social media integration.
Features:
- Discussion boards for conversations and engagement.
- Event creation and RSVP functionality.
- File sharing for collaborative purposes.
- Polls and survey options for gathering opinions.
- Social media integration for broader reach and sharing.
Pros:
- Large user base and familiarity for users.
- Easy setup and administration.
- Seamless social media integration.
- Mobile applications for on-the-go access.
Cons:
- Less customization and branding options compared to dedicated community platforms.
- Limited moderation and control over the content.
- Less focused on professional or niche communities.
Pricing Information:
Facebook Groups is free to use for both individuals and businesses.
8. Slack
While primarily known as a team communication tool, Slack can also be utilized as a community platform, especially for smaller and focused communities. Slack offers features such as channels for different topics, direct messaging, file sharing, app integrations (as well as ChatGPT integration), and customization options. It is particularly suitable for communities that prioritize real-time conversations and collaboration (also integrated with some websites that offer writing services).
Features:
- Channels for organizing discussions based on topics.
- Direct messaging for one-on-one or small group conversations.
- File sharing and collaboration tools.
- App integrations for extending functionality.
- Customization options for branding and design.
Pros:
- Excellent real-time communication capabilities.
- Extensive app integrations for additional functionality.
- Customizable channels and notifications.
- Easy setup and user-friendly interface.
Cons:
- More focused on team collaboration rather than extensive community management features.
- Limited analytics and reporting capabilities.
- Pricing may increase as the community grows.
Pricing Information:
Slack offers a freemium model with limited features for free. More advanced features and additional functionality are available through paid plans, with prices starting at $6.67 per active user per month.
9. LinkedIn Groups
LinkedIn Groups provide a professional and business-focused community platform within the LinkedIn network. It allows industry professionals to connect, network, and share insights within niche communities related to specific fields, industries, or interests. LinkedIn Groups offer features such as discussions, job postings, member directories, and content sharing.
Features:
- Discussions for professional conversations and knowledge sharing.
- Job postings and career opportunities.
- Member directories for networking and connections.
- Content sharing and industry insights.
- Group management and moderation tools.
Pros:
- Professional and business-oriented environment.
- Access to a vast network of industry professionals.
- Opportunities for career growth and recruitment.
- Content sharing and industry insights.
Cons:
- Less customization and branding options compared to dedicated community platforms.
- Limited analytics and reporting capabilities.
- Relies heavily on the LinkedIn network for community growth.
Pricing Information:
LinkedIn Groups are free to use for both individuals and businesses.
10. Mighty Networks
Mighty Networks enables individuals and organizations to create branded community platforms tailored to their needs. It emphasizes mobile-first experiences, community events, courses, and monetization options for community leaders. Mighty Networks provides features such as discussion forums, member profiles, events, courses, and integration with popular tools.
Features:
- Discussion forums for conversations and engagement.
- Member profiles with customizable fields.
- Community events and event management.
- Courses and online learning options.
- Integration with popular tools and services.
- Monetization options for community leaders.
Pros:
- Mobile-first approach for seamless user experiences.
- Versatile features for community engagement and learning.
- Integration with popular tools and services.
- Monetization options for community leaders.
- Robust analytics and reporting capabilities.
Cons:
- Some customization options may require technical expertise.
- Limited branding options compared to other platforms.
Pricing Information:
Mighty Networks offers pricing plans based on the desired features and community size. Prices start at $81 per month for smaller communities and increase with larger community sizes and additional features.
What Is a Community Platform?
At its core, a community platform is an online space that enables individuals with shared interests or goals to connect, interact, and collaborate. These platforms provide a virtual environment where users can create profiles, engage in discussions, share content, and build relationships. As workplaces started shifting to virtual workplaces, online community platforms are essential to creating a sense of community.
The benefits of using community platforms are far-reaching and include increased customer loyalty, improved customer support, enhanced brand advocacy, and valuable user-generated content.
How Does a Community Platform Work?
Community platforms provide a structure and framework for users to participate in community activities. They typically involve setting up the platform, configuring various settings, and customizing the platform to suit the community's specific needs. Users can register and create profiles, enabling them to contribute to discussions, share content, and receive notifications.
Each platform will differ in the specific features offered, but they do have some commonalities. Key features and functionalities include discussion forums, messaging systems, user-generated content creation, and moderation tools that help maintain a healthy and engaging environment.
Who Should Use Community Platforms?
Community platforms are beneficial for a wide range of individuals and organizations. Small businesses can leverage community platforms to connect with customers, gather feedback, and build a loyal customer base. Large enterprises can use community platforms to facilitate knowledge sharing among employees, foster collaboration across departments, and provide a space for customer support.
Nonprofit organizations can create communities to engage with volunteers, donors, and beneficiaries, strengthening their mission. Educational institutions can enhance online learning experiences, encourage peer-to-peer interaction, and promote collaboration among students and faculty members. Niche communities and interest groups can come together on community platforms to share insights, exchange ideas, and cultivate a sense of belonging.
Types of Community Platforms
There are various types of community platforms available, each with its unique characteristics. Open-source community platforms like phpBB and Vanilla Forums provide flexibility and customization options for organizations that have technical resources.
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) community platforms, such as Discourse and Hivebrite, offer ready-to-use solutions hosted in the cloud, reducing the need for extensive technical expertise.
Social media platforms like Facebook Groups and LinkedIn Groups can also serve as community platforms, leveraging the existing user base and familiarity of the platforms.
Additionally, custom-built community platforms can be developed to cater to specific needs and requirements.
How To Choose the Right Community Platform:
Selecting the right community platform for your specific needs requires careful consideration. Here are some factors to keep in mind during the evaluation process:
- Budget: Determine your budgetary constraints and assess the affordability of different platforms.
- Scalability and growth potential: Consider the platform's ability to accommodate your community's growth.
- Customization options: Evaluate the level of customization available to align the platform with your branding and requirements.
- Integration with existing systems: Ensure seamless integration with other tools and platforms your organization relies on.
- User experience and interface: Look for a platform that offers an intuitive and user-friendly interface for enhanced engagement.
- Security and data privacy: Prioritize platforms that prioritize the security and privacy of user data.
FAQs
What is the best free community platform for small businesses?
One of the best free community platforms for small businesses is Discourse. It is an open-source platform that offers a wide range of features for creating and managing online communities.
Which paid community platform is the best for large enterprises?
For large enterprises, Salesforce Community Cloud is often considered one of the best paid community platforms. It offers extensive features for creating branded communities, fostering customer engagement, and providing self-service support.
How much does a community platform typically cost?
The cost of a community platform can vary significantly depending on factors such as the platform's features, scalability, customization options, and the size of the community. Some community platforms offer free or open-source versions, while others have pricing plans based on the number of users or specific features.
Rashida Beal
Claire Fountain
