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11 Comments

Getting beta testers: What works and what doesn't?

Hello IndieHackers,

We've recently launched Wiseone: a new AI-powered chrome extension that enriches the news reading experience by saving time and better analyzing & understanding online information. We are now in the process of getting Beta testers.

I am interested in hearing about your experiences getting beta testers and your suggestions for best practices.

Here's what I have tried so far:

  1. Polywork (works super well)
  2. LinkedIn (not bad)
  3. Twitter (trying to find ways to make it work)
  4. Reddit (banned everytime for self promotion)
  5. Free listing websites (meh, not so much)

We've had promising results with these methods (about 200 sign ups, 100 logins and up to 10 active daily users).

I would love to hear about what has worked for you and what hasn't.
Specifically: what platforms and strategies have you used to successfully gather first active users?
And how do you manage their feedback and ensure they stick around to become early adopters?

Looking forward to hearing your insights and suggestions.

Cheers

Ps: Here's wiseone for reference: https://bit.ly/3XiaY5w

on January 31, 2023
  1. 3

    What worked for me:

    1. Offer early access, exclusive features, or discounts
    2. Reach out to your existing customer base / user community
    3. Utilize social media, forums, or targeted ads to reach potential testers
    4. Partner with companies or influencers in your industry
    5. Offer clear instructions and a user-friendly testing process
    1. 1

      super interesting, thank you for your feedback 🙌

  2. 2

    Hey Chaimae, Can you brief us about the polywork?

    1. 1

      For sure, it' s like a professional social media plateform where people can share posts, collaborate together and many other things.. it worked for me because I was able to post regularly and send private messages to people who put on their profiles "open to beta test new products". Don't hesitate to check it out it's super easy and cool !

      1. 1

        Thanks for your Reply, will check it :)

  3. 2

    Thanks for this. Hadn't heard of polywork before. Going to check them out.

    1. 1

      Yes, do it :) they have worked super well for me!

  4. 2

    Reddit & ProductHunt worked for me.

    • For reddit, you need to ready the community rules throughly and continue commenting & posting to avoid to be banned. I posted my product and got 1.6k views
    1. 1

      That's awesome! Glad it worked for you :) I did the same too and complied with the rules, must have missed something I guess 😅

  5. 2

    Agree with this @Chaimaesakhi

    The quality of the beta feedback will rest in large part on your ability to recruit and motivate the right group of testers, and the type of beta testers you need may depend on your goal for the beta.

    1. 1

      Definitely agree 😊thank you for your feedback