Intro
When your digital platform isn’t working quite right, it’s easy to assume a complete overhaul is the only option. But what if a thoughtful analysis could reveal that you don’t need to start from scratch?
At Port Light Technology, we specialize in helping businesses make smart, informed decisions about their websites, e-commerce platforms, and membership systems. One of our recent client projects is a great example of how the right strategy can save time, money, and stress.
The Challenge
Our client produces digital publications for a niche industry. Their website includes a membership system that allows customers to subscribe and access content. But the platform they inherited was causing headaches — buggy behavior, workflow issues, and poor customer experiences.
They were ready to jump ship to a new membership system, but with so many platforms out there (and none that seemed perfect), they weren’t sure where to turn. That’s when they brought us in to help them figure it out.
Our Approach: The Discovery Project
We proposed a discovery project — a structured and collaborative process to help them make a clear, informed decision. Here’s how it worked:
1. Define the Requirements
We started by creating a detailed requirements document. This involved:
- Reviewing the current system — both the pain points and what was working well
- Interviewing customers and internal users to understand real-world frustrations and needs
- Brainstorming what an ideal membership experience could look like for their business
This process not only highlighted the gaps but also brought new ideas to the surface that hadn’t been considered before.
2. Compare the Options
With the requirements in hand, we analyzed a range of top membership platforms. We compared each one against the requirements in a clear, easy-to-read spreadsheet — including their existing system.
This gave the client a direct, side-by-side comparison showing which platforms checked the right boxes and which fell short.
The Surprising Outcome
The analysis revealed something unexpected: their current platform was actually the best fit — it just needed some modifications and support to unlock its full potential.
Instead of spending tens of thousands of dollars on a new system and migration, the client was able to invest in targeted improvements. The result? A more stable, user-friendly membership experience — without the disruption of a complete rebuild.
The Takeaway
Before making big investments in your website or platform, it’s worth taking a step back to evaluate your options. A structured discovery process can:
- Clarify what you actually need
- Prevent costly mistakes
- Uncover new opportunities
- Give you peace of mind in your decisions
At Port Light Technology, we love helping businesses cut through the noise and find the smartest path forward. Whether you’re dealing with an underperforming system or trying to plan your next big move, let’s talk.
Ready to make your next big decision with clarity?
Contact us to learn more about our Discovery Projects and how we can support your growth.
