I’ve developed an npm package that syncs local markdown files with Jira issues. It’s also going to be a plugin for a task management tool. My target market is businesses, so I’m thinking about how to distribute it.
At first, I was planning to give the bundle to corporate customers and let them host it on their own GitHub. But I realize this approach won’t work long-term as the business grows.
I’m curious about setting up my own npm registry. What registry software would you recommend? Is it a complicated process to get it running? I’d appreciate any insights from those who’ve done this before.
Has anyone here tried selling npm packages? What distribution methods worked best for you? I’m open to suggestions and advice on the best way to handle this. Thanks!
Setting up a private npm registry isn’t overly complex, but it does require some consideration. I’ve used Verdaccio for this purpose and found it quite effective. It’s open-source, easy to set up, and can be self-hosted or cloud-deployed.
For commercial packages, you might want to look into solutions like npm Enterprise or JFrog Artifactory. They offer more robust features for access control and usage tracking, which can be crucial for business clients.
Distribution-wise, a common approach is to provide access tokens to paying customers. This allows them to install your package securely from your private registry.
Remember to factor in ongoing maintenance, security updates, and customer support when pricing your package. It’s not just about the code; it’s about the entire service you’re providing to businesses.
hey there! i’ve sold some npm packages before. verdaccio is pretty good for a private registry, but if youre targeting businesses, you might want something more robust like npm enterprise.
distribution-wise, access tokens work well. just remember to factor in support and updates in your pricing. good luck with your package!
I’ve been down this road before, and it’s definitely an interesting journey. Personally, I found that using Nexus Repository Manager worked well for our private npm registry needs. It’s robust, scalable, and has good access control features which are crucial when dealing with commercial packages.
Setting it up wasn’t too bad, but there was a learning curve. The trickiest part was configuring the authentication and ensuring everything was properly secured. It took a few days of tinkering to get it just right.
As for selling npm packages, we opted for a subscription model. Customers get an access token that’s valid for their subscription period. This approach worked well for us - it provided a steady revenue stream and made updates easier to manage.
One thing I’d strongly advise: make sure your documentation is top-notch. Clear installation instructions and good API docs can save you a ton of support headaches down the line. Also, consider offering different tiers of support - some customers will pay extra for priority assistance.