BACKGROUND

Portaly is a creator monetisation platform that enables individuals to generate income through digital products, live courses, donations, email capture, and 1-to-1 services. In November 2023, Portaly’s growth metrics revealed a clear activation gap. While creator sign-ups were increasing, monetisation behaviours were not keeping pace.

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I led the design of an AI-guided monetisation planning experience that helped Portaly increase creator activation by 8% and retention by 32%.

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UNCERTAINTY DOESN'T SELL

At Portaly, an “activated creator” was defined as someone who published at least one monetisable product or service within 14 days of sign-up. Yet most new users never reached this milestone.

Within the first month:

• Only 48% launched a monetisation method
• Over 60% completed profile setup but never configured pricing or paid offerings
• Many users repeatedly visited monetisation features without completing setup

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Creators weren’t lacking tools. They were lacking clarity, confidence, and actionable first steps.

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The Challenge

THE MONETISATION COLD-START PROBLEM

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Portaly offered many monetisation tools. But tools alone did not create action.

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When creators entered the monetisation page, they saw many possibilities but little guidance. Without a clear first step, hesitation often followed. Our high-level goals were to:

1. Lower the barrier to monetisation

   Help creators identify what they could realistically sell, even with small audiences or early-stage skills.

2. Turn vague ideas into actionable plans

   Provide structured, low-pressure steps that guide creators toward launching their first offering.

3. Build confidence through momentum

   Replace overwhelm with small, achievable progress that encourages continued engagement.