Create a Productized Service - Manual Setup vs. Automated Tools

Key Takeaways

• Two main approaches: You can build everything manually (using tools like Stripe, Trello, and Airtable) or opt for a specialized solution (like Orchestra).
• Manual setups work but can be tedious, time-consuming, and prone to errors---especially when scaling.
• Automated platforms handle payments, onboarding, client communication, and more, freeing you to focus on delivering top-notch service.
• Professional branding matters: A seamless user experience (all under your own domain and logo) can justify higher prices and impress clients.
• Ultimately, choose the method that aligns with your time, budget, and expertise.

Detailed Breakdown

1. The Scrappy DIY Method

Plenty of successful productized agencies still cobble together solutions using Stripe for payments, Trello for task management, and Airtable (or spreadsheets) to track subscriptions and client info. This approach can absolutely work---you can make six figures a month with the right strategy.

However, it has some downsides:

• Multiple logins: You'll juggle Stripe, Trello, email, and other tools.
• Manual tasks: Pausing subscriptions, updating deadlines, and tracking tasks can become a daily chore---especially with multiple clients.
• Branding limitations: Clients see a patchwork system (Stripe links, Trello boards) instead of a cohesive, premium experience under your own domain.

Still, if you have the time and technical skills---or just want to learn the ropes---it's a legitimate first step.

2. Letting Software Do the Heavy Lifting

That's exactly why I built Orchestra. It streamlines:

1. Payment Processing: Connect your Stripe account so clients can subscribe instantly.
2. Onboarding: Customers automatically get access to their own portal with your branding (custom domain, logo, etc.).
3. Task Management & Communication: Everything lives in one place---no need to hop across Trello boards or Slack channels.
4. Subscription Controls: Clients can pause, resume, or upgrade with a few clicks, saving you (and them) from messy manual steps.

When you're charging thousands per month, a well-branded, smooth experience shows you mean business. Plus, it keeps you focused on providing a top-tier service---no rummaging around in spreadsheets or worrying about who paid what.

3. Which Method is Right for You?

Both approaches have pros and cons. Ask yourself:

• How much time do I want to spend on admin tasks?
• Do I need a fully branded, premium look and feel?
• Am I comfortable coding or wrestling with multiple tools?

If you've got the know-how and want full control, DIY might be okay at first. If you're serious about scaling and delivering a seamless client experience, software like Orchestra is probably the better investment.

4. Want a Closer Look?

I'm not here to strong-arm you into using Orchestra---but if you're curious, I'd love to jump on a quick 15-minute call to walk you through it. No strings attached, just a friendly chat to see if it fits your business.