This article explains what marketplace software is, how it powers online platforms that connect buyers and experts, and why Matchifi’s person-to-person approach is the ideal solution for professional networks and directories.
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If you’ve ever wondered “what is marketplace software?”, you’re in the right place. In its simplest form, marketplace software is the platform that enables two or more groups of users—such as buyers and experts—to connect, transact, and generate value within one branded environment.
But for professional networks, directories and expert communities, “marketplace software” means something a little more specialised than standard e-commerce. In this article we’ll explain exactly what it is, why it matters, the key features to look for—and how Matchifi is built for that purpose.
Marketplace software is the technical backbone of a digital marketplace: the infrastructure that supports listings, search or matching, customer-flows, payments, and analytics. One source describes it as “software that allows companies to create their own marketplace, where they can sell products or services”.
In a traditional online marketplace—think of sellers offering goods and buyers browsing, selecting and checking out—the marketplace software carries out functions like:
For organisations that manage directories, member networks or expert communities, marketplace software offers a transformation: from static listings to dynamic, revenue-generating platforms.
Rather than members simply listed in a directory, they become experts offering time, sessions or consults. Buyers connect with them, book, pay—all via your branded platform.
The benefits are clear:
It helps to draw a distinction. Many marketplace platforms are built for physical products (goods) or rentals, where search + filter functionality works fine. But for professional networks the emphasis is different.
Product marketplaces
Expert/Service marketplaces (for networks)
So when evaluating marketplace software for a professional network, you’ll want features beyond basic search—features that foster connection and trust.
(image courtesy of <a href="https://storyset.com/web">Web illustrations by Storyset</a>)
Here are the features you should look for:
1. Expert Matching & Discovery
Not just search and filters, but ability for the network to define criteria (skills, experience, availability, locality) and present a shortlist of relevant experts.
2. Expert Profiles
Rich profiles including video, testimonials, credentials—so buyers feel confident in choosing.
3. Booking & Scheduling Engine
Built-in calendar, session types (hourly, day, packages) and availability management.
4. Payments & Invoicing
Integrated payment processing, automatic invoicing, tax & VAT support, commission splitting.
5. Multi-Revenue Streams
Listings, access/subscription fees and transaction commissions—all supported.
6. White-Label Branding
Your platform feels like your brand, not a generic marketplace.
7. Self-Service & Automation
Experts onboard themselves, buyers book themselves, you manage from one dashboard.
8. Analytics & Insights
Track bookings, expert performance, buyer behaviour, revenue growth.
Matchifi is built with this exact use-case in mind—professional networks and directories wanting to monetise connections. Instead of generic marketplace software built for goods, it is tailored for people-to-people matching and revenue.
With Matchifi you get:
So rather than building your own marketplace from scratch or using a product-first platform, Matchifi offers the right toolkit and infrastructure for expert-network monetisation.
Here’s the typical workflow in a network-led marketplace powered by marketplace software like Matchifi:
When evaluating options, ask:
In short: Marketplace software is more than just “a website where sellers list things”. It’s the engine that powers a multi-sided business model. For professional networks and expert directories, the right software enables you to turn connections into revenue, build trust, and scale efficiently.
If you run a professional network or directory and you’re wondering “what is marketplace software”, look for a solution built specifically for people-matching, expert discovery and revenue generation. Matchifi delivers exactly that.
Q: Can I use marketplace software built for product sales for expert networks?
A: In theory yes, but you’ll often find missing features such as personality matching, video profiles, integrated payments for sessions, and revenue-stream flexibility.
Q: How long does it take to launch?
A: With the right software (e.g. Matchifi) you can launch under your brand in minutes—not months of custom build.
Q: What revenue models are supported?
A: Common models include transaction commission, listing or subscription fees, and access fees for buyers or members.
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