I launched my side project with Vue.js, Firebase and Stripe. Here's what I've learned

Hi fellow Indie Hackers, my name is Luke, I'm 25 and I work as a Front-end Developer in a software company for 3 years now.

About one year ago I decided to try to build my side project. Also I wanted to teach myself a new framework - Vue.js which at that time gained popularity so I thought it would be a great opportunity to learn something new.

I wanted to build a 'Global Creative Community' called Branding Pavilion which is an online directory of companies, events, job offers and interviews from the digital industry.

The idea behind this project is to help clients reach the best digital/marketing/software companies and create an online community.

Software stack of this project includes: Bootstrap 4 as a CSS framework, Vue.js for logic and functionality, Firebase for database and backend, Stripe as a payment method, Cloudflare for protection and security.

It took me about 8 months to teach myself everything and write all the code. For the most part it was fun because I've learned a ton of new things about Single Page Applications.

After I launched, I cold emailed potencial companies that might be interested in being listed and right now the directory counts more than 300 digital/creative companies.

Eventually I thought this project could bring me some money, so I decided to add Stripe integration and optional sponsorship offer but it wasn't successful enough.

Here are some lessons I’ve learned:

1. Cold emails work but…

As I wrote I’ve sent emails to my potential clients and ask them for feedback and presence in the directory. Cold emails work but from my experience out of 100 emails you Get 10% - 20% response.

2. When you start a side project you become: software developer, graphics designer, customer support, sales expert and accountant

This was something I wasn't thinking of but if you don’t have strong social skills it might be difficult at first to deal with all of these things at the same time. Literally you become a one-man army.

3. Don't be a perfectionist

At the beginning I had a problem with that especially when it comes to the UI and front end. Eventually I realised that an app should be functional and bring value to users, it’s great when it also looks fine but it doesn’t have to be a masterpiece.

4. Automate the repetitive tasks early

Very important lesson. Try to automate as much as you can. It saves a lot of time.

5. Treat your side project as an experiment

Don't try to build the best app ever, just do your best, learn new things and gain experience.

6. Think of a problem, not an app or website

I have often asked myself: did I just build a product that doesn't solve any problem? On the other hand there are about 300 people that signed up and added their company profile and generally liked the idea, so I don't know to be honest. I guess the best way to get experience is to start something.

7. Starting a side project during global pandemia is hard

This might be a reason why I couldn’t monetize my idea. Many companies decided to cut marketing and advertising funds during pandemia and my business model based on that funds. Another important lesson to learn.

Conclusion

Generally speaking I’m quite happy when I think about this project. It definitely won’t pay my bills but it kept me busy for about a half a year and I’ve learned a lot about side projects e.g. building Vue.js SPA app, Firebase integration, Stripe integration, APIs. Right now I can’t wait to start something new :D

Last but not least if you own a digital/creative/marketing company feel free to include your company profile in the directory, just sign up and fill the form or maybe if you know somebody who owns such a company I would be more than grateful if you would recommend my platform.

Looking forward to your feedback.