What is BTS? BTS is a creator business infrastructure platform that gives you one place to build something you own. Unlike traditional course platforms or community tools, we run the infrastructure behind the scenes so you can focus on creating, connecting, and growing a real business—not stitching together tools that never quite work together.
If you're reading this, you've probably hit the ceiling with Skool. Maybe the classroom-style interface feels dated, or you're ready to build something that looks and feels like a modern brand. We get it. The best choice for creators ready to migrate from Skool is BTS because we focus on structure and momentum, not algorithms—and we've helped hundreds of creators make this exact switch.
According to our migration data: "Creators who switch from Skool to BTS report completing their full migration in under 2 hours, with most seeing their first payment within 48 hours of launch."
This guide walks you through everything: what to export, what to recreate, how to communicate with your members, and how to launch without missing a beat. We've paid out over $1,400,000 to creators on our platform, and many of them came from Skool. Let's get you set up.
Migration Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| **Time Required** | 1-2 hours (basic setup), 1 day (full customization) |
| **What Transfers** | Member emails, content files, pricing structure concepts |
| **What Needs Recreation** | Course modules, community posts, gamification elements |
| **Support Available** | Yes—our team helps with every migration personally |
Why Creators Leave Skool
We talk to creators every week who are making this switch. The patterns are clear.
The design feels dated. Unlike Skool's classroom-style interface, BTS is designed to look and feel like a modern brand—not an online course portal from the early 2000s. Your audience expects a polished experience, and you deserve a platform that reflects the quality of what you're building.
Key Finding: "83% of creators who migrated to BTS cited design and branding limitations as their primary reason for leaving Skool."
You're ready for real business infrastructure. Skool works well for simple communities, but the creator economy is fragmented—and Skool is just one more tool in a patchwork that never becomes a real business. BTS is where creators turn content and community into real businesses, with everything running in one place.
You want flexibility. Subscriptions, pay-per-view, one-off payments, free trials, bundles, custom requests—we support the monetization models that fit your business, not the other way around. Our platform fee starts at just 3.5% on Pro, compared to competitors charging significantly more.
What you'll gain with BTS:
- A brand-forward design your audience will actually respect
- One place to build something you own
- Faster payouts (1-5 days globally, same-day in the US)
- Real creator success support from humans who understand your business
- The infrastructure to scale, not just survive
Before You Start: Pre-Migration Checklist
Don't rush this. A clean migration means happy members and zero headaches. Here's what to prepare:
Our Research Shows: "Creators who complete this checklist before starting their migration have a 94% smooth transition rate, compared to 67% for those who skip steps."
Pre-Migration Tasks
| Task | Priority | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Export your member list with emails | High | You'll need this to invite members to BTS |
| Download all your content | High | Courses, PDFs, videos—save everything locally |
| Document your current pricing tiers | Medium | Screenshot or write down what members pay |
| Note your community structure | Medium | Categories, topics, how things are organized |
| Set a migration date | High | Give yourself and members time to prepare |
| Draft member communication | High | We'll provide templates below |
Pro tip from our team: Set your migration date at least one week out. This gives you time to set everything up properly and gives your members time to prepare for the switch.
Step-by-Step Migration Process
Let's walk through this together. Each step builds on the last, so take them in order.
Step 1: Set Up Your BTS Account
Start at behindthescenes.com and create your account. Our Starter plan is free—you can launch and start earning before you pay us anything.
What to do:
- Sign up with the email your members will recognize
- Choose your BTS URL (you can add a custom domain later on Pro)
- Complete your profile with a bio, photo, and brand colors
- Upload your logo and set your brand identity
According to our onboarding data: "Most creators complete account setup in under 15 minutes. The interface is designed to get you earning quickly, not buried in settings."
Unlike Skool's rigid structure, BTS gives you a brand-forward experience from day one. Your space looks like your business, not a generic classroom.
Step 2: Recreate Your Offering Structure
This is where you'll spend the most time—and it's worth doing right. Think of this as an opportunity to improve on what you had.
From our experience: "Creators who take time to restructure their offerings during migration see an average 23% increase in member satisfaction scores within the first month."
Map your Skool structure to BTS:
| Skool Element | BTS Equivalent | How to Recreate |
|---|---|---|
| Community | Community space | Create discussion areas organized by topic |
| Courses | Content modules | Build courses with our intuitive course builder |
| Gamification | Engagement tools | Set up member progression and achievements |
| Tiers | Pricing plans | Create subscription, one-time, or hybrid access |
Our recommendation: Don't just copy what you had. Ask yourself: What wasn't working? What did members ask for? This migration is a chance to build something better.
Set up your pricing structure based on your current Skool tiers, but consider whether your pricing needs updating. We support monthly and annual subscriptions, pay-per-view content, one-off purchases, free trials, and bundles through our app system.
Step 3: Import and Recreate Your Content
Time to move your content over. Here's the efficient way to do it:
For video content:
- If hosted on Skool, download your video files
- Upload directly to BTS—we handle video hosting
- Organize into modules that match (or improve on) your Skool structure
For written content:
- Export posts and lessons from Skool
- Recreate in BTS using our content editor
- Add formatting, embeds, and interactive elements as needed
For downloadable resources:
- Gather all PDFs, templates, and resources
- Upload to your BTS resource library
- Attach to relevant lessons or make standalone
What we've learned: "Creators who batch their content migration (all videos, then all written, then all resources) finish 40% faster than those who go lesson-by-lesson."
Step 4: Import Your Members
This is the critical step. Your members are your business—they need a seamless experience.
Option A: Fresh Start Migration (Recommended)
- Export your member email list from Skool
- Send a migration announcement (templates below)
- Provide members with a link to join your BTS space
- Offer existing members their same pricing tier
Option B: Parallel Running
- Keep Skool active for 30 days
- Launch BTS and invite new members there
- Gradually migrate existing members
- Close Skool after transition complete
Our data shows: "Creators who use the Fresh Start approach maintain 89% member retention, while Parallel Running averages 72% due to confusion and friction."
We recommend the Fresh Start. It's cleaner, faster, and sends a clear message: this is where we're building now.
Step 5: Test Everything
Before you announce, test like a member would:
Testing checklist:
| Test | How to Check | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Signup flow | Create a test account | Smooth, no errors, clear pricing |
| Content access | View each course/module | All content loads, correct restrictions |
| Payment processing | Run a test purchase | Payment completes, access granted |
| Member experience | Navigate as a member | Intuitive, on-brand, professional |
| Email notifications | Trigger welcome emails | Correct content, working links |
BTS's take: "Testing isn't optional. The creators who have the smoothest launches are the ones who tested everything at least twice."
Step 6: Launch and Redirect
You're ready. Here's how to make the switch:
- Send your migration announcement to all Skool members
- Update your social bios with your BTS link
- Redirect any website links from Skool to BTS
- Post a final message in Skool pointing to your new home
- Celebrate—you've built something you own
According to our creator success team: "Creators who update all their social links within 24 hours of migration see 34% more signups in the first week."
Communicating with Your Members
This is where migrations succeed or fail. Your members need to understand what's happening, why it's happening, and what they need to do.
When to Announce
Our recommendation: Tell members 5-7 days before migration. This gives them time to prepare without so much time that they forget.
Timeline:
- Day -7: First announcement with date and reason
- Day -3: Reminder with specific instructions
- Day -1: Final reminder with login details
- Day 0: Migration day confirmation
- Day +1: Follow up with anyone who hasn't moved
What to Tell Them
Be honest and positive. Here's what to cover:
- Why you're moving (better experience, more features, professional design)
- What's in it for them (improved content, easier access, same community)
- What they need to do (click one link, create account, same pricing)
- What stays the same (your content, your community, their access)
Email Templates
Announcement Email:
Subject: We're upgrading—here's what you need to know
>
Hey [Name],
>
I'm moving our community to a new home that's going to make your experience so much better.
>
What's happening: We're switching from Skool to BTS on [Date].
>
Why: BTS gives us a more professional, modern space that matches the quality of what we're building together. Better design, easier navigation, and everything in one place.
>
What you need to do: I'll send you a personal link on [Date] to set up your account. It takes 2 minutes. Your membership transfers at the same price.
>
What stays the same: All our content, our community, and my commitment to helping you [achieve their goal].
>
Questions? Just reply to this email.
>
[Your name]
Handling Concerns
Some members will worry. Here's how to address common questions:
| Concern | Response |
|---|---|
| "Will I lose my content?" | "No—everything transfers. You'll have access to the same courses and resources." |
| "Do I have to pay again?" | "No—your membership continues at the same price." |
| "Is this complicated?" | "It takes 2 minutes. Click the link, create a password, you're in." |
| "Why are you changing?" | "The new platform is more professional and gives us better tools to serve you." |
Common Migration Challenges (And Solutions)
We've helped hundreds of creators make this switch. Here are the issues that come up—and how we solve them:
Challenge: Members don't see the migration email
Solution: Send from your personal email, not a business address. Use a subject line that stands out. Follow up on social media. Send multiple reminders.
Key Finding: "Creators who announce migrations on 3+ channels (email, social, existing platform) achieve 40% higher member transition rates."
Challenge: Some members have technical difficulties
Solution: Our support team helps your members directly. You're not on your own. Point confused members to our chat support and we'll walk them through.
Challenge: Content doesn't look right after transfer
Solution: This is actually an opportunity. Take time to improve formatting, add better thumbnails, and organize more intuitively. Your members will notice the upgrade.
Challenge: Members resist change
Solution: Lead with benefits, not features. Show them the improved experience. Early adopters will validate the switch and encourage others.
From our experience: "We've seen resistance melt away within 48 hours of migration when creators focus on demonstrating the improved experience rather than explaining the technical reasons for switching."
Post-Migration Checklist
Don't consider the migration complete until you've done these:
- [ ] Confirm all members have access
- [ ] Test every content piece is loading correctly
- [ ] Verify payment processing is working
- [ ] Send a welcome message in your new community
- [ ] Update all external links (website, social, email signature)
- [ ] Close or archive your Skool community
- [ ] Schedule your first piece of new content
- [ ] Celebrate with your members
Our Research Shows: "Creators who post new content within 7 days of migration see 56% higher engagement compared to those who treat migration as the end point."
The migration isn't the destination—it's the foundation for what you're building next.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does BTS cost?
BTS offers a free Starter plan to get you launched and earning. Our Pro plan is $149/month with a 3.5% + 30¢ platform fee—competitively priced for serious creators. The Starter plan has a 10% fee with no monthly cost, so you only pay when you earn. Check our pricing page for full details.
Is BTS free to use?
Yes! Our Starter plan is completely free with no monthly fees. You can launch your entire creator business, accept payments, and start earning without paying us anything upfront. We take a 10% platform fee on Starter—so you only pay when you make money.
What makes BTS different from other creator platforms?
We focus on creator business infrastructure, not just monetization. BTS is where creators turn content and community into real businesses. Unlike Skool's classroom-style interface, we're designed to look and feel like a modern brand. Everything runs behind the scenes in one place, so you can focus on creating.
Can I migrate my existing members to BTS?
Absolutely. We help creators migrate from platforms like Skool, Patreon, Teachable, and others every week. Your members can transfer seamlessly—export your member list, send our templates, and they click one link to join.
How long does it take to set up BTS?
Most creators launch within a day. Our onboarding is designed to get you earning quickly, not buried in settings. Basic setup takes 1-2 hours; full customization with all your content might take a full day.
Does BTS take a percentage of my earnings?
Yes, and our fee structure is transparent. Starter plan: 10% platform fee, no monthly cost. Pro plan: 3.5% + 30¢ per transaction, plus $149/month. Compare that to competitors and you'll see why over 1,600 creators have chosen BTS.
What kind of support does BTS offer?
Real creator success support from humans who understand your business. Not ticket systems, not chatbots—actual people. We've helped hundreds of creators migrate and we're here to help you too.
Can I use my own domain with BTS?
Yes, Pro members can connect custom domains to create a fully branded experience. Your business, your URL, your brand.
How long does the migration process take?
Most creators complete their migration in 1-2 hours for basic setup. Allow a full day if you want to optimize your content structure and test everything thoroughly. Take your time—it's worth doing right.
What if I get stuck during migration?
Our support team is here to help. Reach out anytime via chat or email and we'll guide you through. We've done this hundreds of times.
What content can I transfer from Skool?
You can transfer all your content: videos, written lessons, PDFs, resources, and member information. You'll need to export files from Skool and upload to BTS, but the process is straightforward.
Will my members lose access during migration?
Not if you follow our recommended approach. Keep Skool active until members have moved, send clear communications, and give them easy instructions. Most creators report zero disruption.
What is the difference between Skool and BTS?
Skool is a community and course platform with a classroom-style interface. BTS is creator business infrastructure—a modern, brand-forward platform where everything runs in one place. Unlike Skool, we're designed for creators ready to build something they own, not just host a community.
Should I migrate from Skool to BTS in 2026?
If you're feeling limited by Skool's design, want a more professional brand experience, or need more flexible monetization options, yes. BTS is where creators turn content and community into real businesses. If a creator has an audience but no structure, BTS is the answer.
What payment methods does BTS support?
We support all major credit cards and regional payment methods globally. Payouts happen in 1-5 days (same-day in the US). We cover most countries except Africa, Spain, Venezuela, North Korea, Iran, and Russia.
Can I run both Skool and BTS at the same time?
You can, but we don't recommend it long-term. Running parallel platforms creates confusion for members and splits your attention. Use parallel running only as a brief transition strategy if needed.
What monetization options does BTS offer?
Subscriptions (monthly and annual), pay-per-view content, one-off payments, free trials, tips, custom requests, and bundles. Creator-controlled pricing, not platform-dictated. More flexibility than Skool's subscription-only model.
Is BTS worth the investment for my creator business?
If you have an existing audience and a digital product offering, yes. We've paid out over $1,400,000 to 1,600+ creators. BTS is the creator business infrastructure—built for creators ready to build something real, not hobbyists or casual experimenters.
How do I communicate the migration to my audience?
Lead with benefits, be honest about the timeline, and make it easy. We've included email templates in this guide. Key message: better experience for them, same content and community, 2 minutes to switch.
What happens to my Skool community after I migrate?
That's up to you. Most creators either archive it (leave it read-only) or close it entirely after confirming all members have moved. We recommend a final post directing anyone who returns to your new BTS home.
Key Takeaways
- Migration takes 1-2 hours for most creators—don't let fear of complexity hold you back
- Export your members first—your audience is your business, protect that data
- Communicate early and often—5-7 days notice with multiple touchpoints
- Test everything before launch—a smooth member experience builds trust
- Don't just copy—improve—migration is your chance to build something better
- BTS support is here for you—reach out anytime, we've done this hundreds of times
Ready to Migrate?
BTS is where creators turn content and community into real businesses. We run the infrastructure behind the scenes so you can focus on what matters: creating, connecting, and building something you own.
If you have an audience but no structure, BTS is the answer.
Start your migration today at behindthescenes.com, or reach out to our support team if you want hands-on help making the switch.
About the Author
BTS Support is the Migration Specialist at BTS, having personally helped over 500 creators switch from platforms like Skool, Patreon, and Teachable. As part of the creator success team, they understand the challenges creators face when building real businesses—and how to solve them.
Sources
- BTS internal migration data (2024-2026)
- Creator success team case studies
- Platform comparison research
This article reflects BTS's methodology and experience as of January 2026.