Do you think that "early access" still works?
Hi there,
currently, we are in the process of launching our first early access period for Postwave. We can't sign up users just yet but will be able to start our beta program in the upcoming month.
I'm curious about what's your opinion on early access programs in general. Do you think that they are a good option for initial users or do you think that there are better ways to approach early signups?
And if you think that there are better ways, what are they and how would you approach the early signup process?
it can work if it marries well with your strategy. some folks do "early access" and then never communicate to those folks. that's just a dormant "email list"...
Would you say sending a monthly email update is enough?
does that feel like enough to you, especially in the beginning stages?
Personally, I think once a month is fine. Anything more than that, I start to run out of content/info to include directly related to my startup. I have two email lists though, one for my close network and another for our customers/backers (we are launching on Kickstarter).
really. i write every single day about my startup... there's like... an endless source of content.
strange.
cool!
🤷🏻♀️
I totally agree if one chooses to offer some early access and some benefits one should live up to his word as well.
exactly. if you're going to do it well... then, do it well!
Personally, I've seen 'early access' work quite well and it can for a lot of companies/brands. Here's what I can speak on about early access vs. bet vs. waiting for a full launch:
Make sure your early access is NOT just lead generation and is in fact access to something tangible and that they can get value out of, learn from, and easily see the progression
Communicate, communicate, communicate - include an effective comms strategy as part of the rollout. You don't have to overdo it, but something that's consistent, shows them you're working away and improving things, etc.
Define clarity and establish those success metrics upfront for your early access. Are you going for quality vs. quantity.. or both?
Again, just my own personal take.
Great question though!
Thats great! Thank you for your answer. I think a good communication strategy is key here.
@Dahfab We are preparing to launch Alpha - and I prefer calling it early access then Alpha. Marketing gimmick or not it def sounds better and brings subtle but different expectations.
Early access is not for everyone and should not be promoted to everyone IMHO.
The key is which target group are you going after.
So be very specific which hypothesis you want to test and with whom.
That worked for me before w/ Autoklose and I think I can repeat it.
I think it‘s definitely more for people who already are in an early adopter mindset. Will be interesting to see where to find those people though.
Exactly... And those that want to be on the forefront of new things and technologies. Asfor where to find them: Probably here, producthunt, FB groups...
To me, early access nowadays often means:
A) Bugs
B) That whatever cheap price you'll get now will triple in a year or two and you'll be shat upon :D
What would be an alternative you want to see instead?
I honestly have no idea. You can take my opinion with a grain of salt. Just annoyed that Front, which I introduced in my family's business when Front was just starting up, have almost doubled their price each year from ~$10 per user and month to ~$40. We can't just pick up and go either because we've become so invested in the service.
Sorry for the rant :D
No worries it's interesting to hear about such stories and understandable that you are upset about that! :D
Thanks for the post. 🙏🏻 Don't have answer, but curious what people think of this and what kind of alternatives you can suggest.
Great that you have the same question on your mind :)