Getting Started with Patreon User Role Changer: A Step-by-Step Guide
The Patreon User Role Changer plugin is a powerful tool that allows you to automatically assign specific user roles to new users with usernames starting with patreon_. Whether you’re managing a membership site or creating custom user flows for your Patreon supporters, this plugin makes the process seamless.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the setup and configuration process to get the most out of the plugin.
Step 1: Installing the Plugin
- Download the Patreon User Role Changer plugin from Frost Line Works.
- Log in to your WordPress admin dashboard.
- Go to Plugins > Add New, then click the Upload Plugin button at the top.
- Upload the plugin file (
patreon-user-role-changer.zip) and click Install Now. - Once installed, click Activate Plugin.
Step 2: Installing the Required Plugins
The plugin requires the following:
- FLW Plugin Library: This library enables automatic updates and enhanced features. If it’s not already installed:
- Go to Plugins > Add New.
- Search for FLW Plugin Library and install it.
- Activate the plugin.
- Patreon WordPress Plugin: The official plugin for integrating your Patreon account with WordPress. Install it from Patreon Connect and follow the setup instructions provided.
Note: If any required plugin is inactive or missing, you’ll see an admin notice guiding you through the process.
Step 3: Configuring the Plugin Settings
- In your WordPress admin dashboard, navigate to FLW Plugins > Patreon Role.
- On the settings page:
- Use the dropdown menu to select the role you’d like to assign to new Patreon users whose usernames start with
patreon_. - By default, the plugin creates a Patreon Member role, which replicates the capabilities of a Subscriber.
- Use the dropdown menu to select the role you’d like to assign to new Patreon users whose usernames start with
- Click Save Changes to apply your settings.
Step 4: Customizing the “Patreon Member” Role
The Patreon Member role is automatically created by the plugin and can be used as the default role for Patreon users. To customize it:
- Navigate to FLW Plugins > Patreon Role.
- Use the dropdown menu to select and customize the desired role for Patreon users.
- Save your changes.
Note: The role you select in the settings page will be assigned to all new Patreon users created by the Patreon Connect plugin.
Testing the Plugin
Due to the nature of Patreon’s integration, testing requires creating a separate Patreon account and subscribing monetarily to your own subscription. Once tested, you can cancel and refund the transaction.
Why Testing Requires a Subscription
The plugin integrates directly with the Patreon WordPress Plugin, and user roles are only assigned after successful subscription events. This ensures that only genuine Patreon members receive the designated role.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need the Patreon WordPress Plugin installed?
Yes, the Patreon WordPress Plugin is required for proper integration and to ensure user roles are updated based on subscription activity.
What happens if the username doesn’t start with patreon_?
The plugin only changes roles for users whose usernames begin with patreon_. Other users will be assigned roles based on your WordPress default settings.
Can I use this plugin for usernames with different prefixes?
Currently, the plugin is designed specifically for the patreon_ prefix. Custom prefixes may require plugin modification.
By following these steps, you can easily set up and start using the Patreon User Role Changer plugin to streamline your user management.