We allow members to change levels and would definitely like to see this be something they can do on their own.
For us,
o it does not make sense for a member to down grade until their renewal is due, because they do not get any refund. So, at renewal, they should be allowed to downgrade if they so desire
o members may have to upgrade before their normal renewal period if they want to apply to be "juried", become a member of "JAD", etc. We do not prorate. Anyone that wants to upgrade prior to their next renewal date should be able to just by paying the difference in the membership fees. Anyone wishing to upgrade at the renewal date should be able to choose the other membership level and simply pay the current renewal rate for that level.
Also, we have 2 basic membership categories set up - each with multiple levels
For example - general members and business members would be in one upgrade/downgrade path
Sponors at varying levels would be a completely different upgrade/downgrade path.