Here's when to consider a hard paywall:

• Unique and Exclusive Content: If your content is highly specialized, investigative, or offers exclusive insights, a hard paywall can effectively capture its value. With Conscent publishers can customize their hard paywalls based on the sections of the website. 

  
  

• Strong Brand Reputation: A well-established brand with a loyal audience who already understands the value proposition can benefit from a hard paywall.
  
  

• Limited Free Content: Offer minimal free content to pique reader interest but restrict access to the core value proposition behind the paywall.

Implementation:

• Clear Value Proposition: Clearly communicate the value of your subscription and the type of premium content offered behind the paywall. Highlight exclusive interviews, in-depth analysis, or investigative journalism not available elsewhere.
  
  

• Strong Marketing Strategy: Promote your subscription service aggressively. Emphasize the benefits of subscribing and showcase exclusive content samples to generate interest. Utilize social media, email marketing, and targeted advertising campaigns.
  
  

• Freemium Model Integration: Consider offering a limited freemium model with access to a select few articles or introductory content to entice readers. This can act as a lead magnet and encourage them to subscribe for the full experience.

Impact on Publishers:

• Higher Subscription Revenue: By restricting access to the most valuable content, hard paywalls typically generate a higher average revenue per user (ARPU) compared to metered models.
  
  

• Reduced Content Piracy: Since content isn't readily available for free, hard paywalls minimize the risk of online piracy.
  
  

• Loyal Subscriber Base: Subscribers who value your exclusive content are more likely to remain loyal and renew their subscriptions.
  
  

• Limited Audience Reach: Hard paywalls might restrict initial audience growth as readers hesitate to subscribe without experiencing some content first.