While social media networks make it easy to create an online community or group, that convenience comes with hidden costs. Network operators monitor posts and activities (even keystrokes and mouse movements) to give advertisers incredibly detailed information about your travel, relationships, finances, mental and physical health, and so on

Then you’re targeted for tons of ads ­– even after you’ve bought what they’re advertising. Remember: If you’re not paying for the product, then you are the product!

Just as bad, some of those networks amplify and spread misinformation and hate, while ignoring and enabling personal attacks. It’s bad for society and for individuals alike.

Notd exists to break that model. Notd is optimized for writers and readers, not advertisers and for-profit companies. Our publishing network makes it easy to build online communities, as well as publish newsletters, blogs, and news, using an ultra-low-cost subscription model.

Here’s how it works.

1. Create a channel (we call them “Streams”) about a topic that interests you.

2. Decide the subscription price, typically a few cents to start. Change it any time.

3. Choose whether the stream will be public or private, and whether members need an invitation to subscribe and post Notes (see screenshot below).

4. Publish your posts (we call them “Notes”) free – forever.

If you want to monetize your Stream, you’ll keep 90% of all subscription revenue earned. If not, set the price to the minimum: 1 cent per month or 10 cents per year. This small amount allows readers to enjoy ad-free content without fear of personal data collection. It also works to keep most trolls away, which makes moderating a lot less work.

To process these micro-payments quickly and efficiently, we use the Transact payment system.

Register with Transact today to create a Stream or start subscribing to others’ streams. You’ll get $3 in free credit to spend on subscriptions.

Also, check out our publishing tips and explore the other ways that Notd is different. Hit us up with any questions at support@notd.io. Unlike big networks, we write back!