45. Templates & Frameworks

Sell ready-made documents that streamline professional workflows

What It Is

Professionals in virtually every field use templates, checklists, or frameworks—from project charters to financial forecasting spreadsheets. If you've developed a polished, time-saving tool that others desperately need, you can package and sell it.

How the Monetization Works

You sell digital downloads via your own website or established platforms. Revenue models include:

  • One-time purchase fees ($9-$99 based on complexity)
  • Bundle packages for related templates
  • Basic/premium versions with different features
  • Subscription access for template libraries

Once your template is available, it can bring in sales indefinitely—especially with consistent marketing.

Example

A project manager might create an advanced Agile Sprint Planning Toolkit (complete with backlog templates, sprint review checklists, and retrospective forms). They could list it on Gumroad for $29. People seeking ready-made solutions buy it, saving themselves hours of setup time.

Practical Steps to Get Started

  • Identify Pain Points: Focus on tasks that are frequently repeated or poorly documented in your field.
  • Design for Usability: Include clear instructions, color-coding, and sample data to help users.
  • Set a Fair Price: Consider how much time your template saves the average user.
  • Market in Professional Communities: Share previews on LinkedIn or relevant forums.

Key Takeaways

Selling professional templates turns your "tried-and-true" solutions into a digital product. Whether it's a thorough accounting spreadsheet or a marketing campaign planner, you help peers work smarter and get paid each time someone downloads your framework.

Further Reading & Resources

  • Gumroad – E-commerce platform for selling digital files like spreadsheets or checklists.
  • Payhip – Simple checkout solution for digital downloads or subscription content.
  • Etsy – Active marketplace for well-designed, ready-to-use professional documents.