User account types

On a Made Open platform, account types define the different kinds of users who can join and interact on the platform. Each account type determines what a member can see, do and contribute — for example, which features they can access or what kind of activities they can post.

Typical account types include:

• Individuals – for people who want to connect, volunteer, learn or take part in community activities.
• Organisations – for community groups, charities or service providers that want to share events, listings or opportunities.
• Professionals – for members who represent a service or network in a professional capacity.

Administrators can create, rename or customise these account types within the control panel to match their platform’s purpose or community structure

• Platform administrators can set and change the account types within the CMS.
• The account type defines the user initially upon registration into 'Individual', 'Group' or 'Organisation'.
• When the user then sets up their profile, they can further define this within your community's industry or field. (eg. 'practitioner', 'doctor', 'nurse').
• You can set as many account types as you like, but we recommend keeping the list as concise as possible to avoid overloading users.
• You are recommended to describe each account type to help ensure individuals do not register as an organisation.

To set up your account types for the first time:

1. Sign into your platform.
2. Type /CMS after the platform URL.
3. Use the left-hand menu to select 'Member account types'.
4. Select 'add a new account type'.
5. Give your type a name.
6. Set a key for the type.
7. Check the box for 'main type' if you want it to be an option during registration.
8. If not, leave unchecked for the type to be an option during the 'set up profile' type.
9. Add a description to help the user understand which type is best for them.
10. Use the 'save filter' button.

To edit your user types:

1. Sign into your platform.
2. Type /CMS after the platform URL.
3. Use the left-hand menu to select 'Member account types'.
4. Locate the account type you wish to edit and use the cog icon on the right hand side.
5. Make your edits and save.