I have been working hard at re-designing my current website to include more features. The most important is the members section. By logging in, members can enjoy some features like articles that I have written on website design and management, get information on specials and recent updates to services, and qualify for periodic sales and offers.
Now, is a members section necessary?
These days, the problem with websites is how static they are. Visitors come over once in a while and even if they return only six months later, nothing has changed. Not only nothing has changed, there is nothing for them to experience or benefit from the website.
If they feel that their presence is important enough that they are asked to sign in, which then allows them privileges from the site, that is one way of providing service to your visitors which isn't directly based on your actual business. In my case, I may not be building their website, but I am offering my (potential) clients special articles, reduced prices, and information on new and improved products.
The same with a blog. By keeping an active account on relevant information, your services to the clients and visitors becomes more than just a website that lists your services. You can actually provide a service, free or with minimal input like membership, that will help you interact with your clients and keeps their needs as your primary goal.