John, just putting my marketing and commercial hat on for a mo
i think it would be possible to make a few bob and please your customers on ribnet. i would recommend changing your charging structure as the membership at the lowest level is more like a charity donation. which does not really work for people as they are not getting much back for it
here is what i propose
silver level 1 150 msgs 10 quid
silver level 2 200 msgs 20 quid
silver level 3 250 msgs 30 quid
student silver level 2 10 quid
student silver levle 3 20 quid
gold 300 msgs and same as current
level 2 and above would give you buy and sell capabilities
i have noticed that some who sign up only do for a year, this way you can capture more money and people can buy functionality at a modest price giving you more funds for the site.
i for one would sign up for a silver level as identified above as it is less of a charity and more about buying service and capabilities.
pm me if you want any more ideas
i would guarantee you would get more funds so i want 10% commission,