> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://helpdesk.ldtsoft.work/ldt-online-course/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://helpdesk.ldtsoft.work/ldt-online-course/subscription-and-access-settings/how-the-membership-course-model-with-timed-access-works.md).

# How the Membership Course Model with Timed Access Works

This guide is designed to give you an overview of the subscription model, how different apps work together, and the benefits it provides before you dive into the detailed setup steps.

### Selling Time-Bound Access Instead of One-Time Purchases 

The subscription model allows you to turn your course into a continuous service, creating a stable and recurring revenue stream. Students pay a recurring fee (monthly/yearly) to maintain access to your course content.

### The "App Squad": Who Does What? 

For this model to run smoothly, two main applications need to work together in sync:

[**Shopify Subscriptions App**](https://apps.shopify.com/shopify-subscriptions) handles the "Recurring Payments" task. It manages automatic billing, renewals, and cancellations of subscription plans.

<figure><img src="/files/CfppCj1BbQfmfjrNpwyR" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

[**LDT Online Courses App**](https://apps.shopify.com/ldt-courses) handles the "Course Delivery and Access Management" task. It automatically enrolls students and, most importantly, automatically revokes access when the subscription expires.

<figure><img src="/files/4C2dN35yj2bpp3ECFCM7" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### The Workflow: From Purchase to Expiration

&#x20;The automated workflow is illustrated in 4 simple steps:

* **PURCHASE**: A customer selects and buys a subscription plan (Monthly or Yearly) on your Shopify store.
* **ENROLLMENT**: Instantly, the LDT app automatically enrolls them in the course and activates the countdown for their access period (31 or 366 days, depending on the plan).
* **LEARNING**: The student accesses and learns the course content normally throughout their active subscription period.
* **END OF CYCLE**:

If renewed: The system automatically resets the access period.

If not renewed: After expiration, the LDT app automatically revokes access. The student will no longer be able to view the course until they pay for the next cycle.

### Key Elements to Set Up (Preparation for Part 2)

&#x20;To get started, you will need to prepare the following:

A course product with variants for different subscription plans.

The Shopify Subscriptions app installed and configured.

Your course in the LDT app linked to the product.

In the next post, we will guide you in more detail about [setting up an automated subscription course](https://helpdesk.ldtsoft.work/ldt-online-course/subscription-and-access-settings/a-step-by-step-guide-to-setting-up-an-automated-subscription-course)
\
In addition, if you are interested in creating a course that automatically grants access based on the customer's subscription status, like Netflict, please refer to the tutorial [setting up a subscription course with enrollment tags](https://helpdesk.ldtsoft.work/ldt-online-course/subscription-and-access-settings/setting-up-a-subscription-course-with-enrollment-tags)


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