Ask HN: How to add value to newly launched product?

7 points by futuregram ↗ HN
Hi HN,

We are seeing off-the-cuff interest in our new bootstrapped product. We know problem exists because we face it. We also know our solution is better because we have data around how fast our model runs and how quickly it processes data.

However, when Ireached out to potential customers I get lackluster response. We did convert at least two people into paid customers. For others though, we have not heard back.

I don't know whether this is symptom of solving for a small feature or market is just rough.

How can I communicate and add value to the product when it seems like a small feature but in reality it is a hard problem?

11 comments

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I think this is too vague for anyone to help you. Maybe post more specific details about what the problem is.
a link to the project could also solicit feedback
A fun, new app to help you engage more with friends and family, yet maintain your secrets?
> it seems like a small feature but in reality it is a hard problem?

If you have to convince your customers that they have a problem, you have already lost.

> We know problem exists because we face it.

A dangerous assumption that has led to many failed startups.

> However, when Ireached out to potential customers I get lackluster response

Make sure to verify that the problem exists and that people are spending money to fix it.

Don’t waste time trying to build something that “someone somewhere” may want.

(comment deleted)
Here's my advice, take it with a grain of salt: 1. Consider the Customer - Are you targeting the right audience? Evaluate whether your product is truly valuable to your potential customers. If you're unsure, reach out to potential users and see if your solution resonates. 2. Focus on Value - How does your product improve their existing process? Highlight the specific benefits and features that make your solution stand out. Offer a clear explanation of how it can save users time, money, or provide other significant improvements. 3. Demonstrate Your Expertise - Share your knowledge and expertise in the field. Offer insights, blog posts, or videos that educate your target audience and showcase the unique value your product brings. Establishing trust and authority can help users understand why they should choose your solution. 4. Leverage Social Proof - Gather testimonials or case studies from satisfied customers. Use this social proof to demonstrate the value others have found in your product. Often, hearing the success stories of other users can reassure potential customers and encourage them to give your product a try. 5. Offer a Free Trial or Demo - Give potential customers a chance to experience your product firsthand with a free trial or demo. This hands-on experience can help them fully understand your solution's value and how it can improve their workflows. 6. Iterate and Adapt - Continuously gather feedback from users and adapt your product based on their needs. By listening to your customers, you can refine your solution and better meet their expectations. Remember, building a successful product takes time and persistence.

you can also try SpotCircuit AI to drive your drive business growth

>We also know our solution is better because we have data around how fast our model runs and how quickly it processes data.

Do your target customers care about these engineering performance targets?

> How can I communicate and add value to the product

Why “add value”, instead try removing extraneous features and figure out what the core of your offer is, and focus on doing that right. In other words , cut the fat out.

(comment deleted)
The market isn't rough, it never been easier to sell software. What's rough is the tech job market which isn't related to the users spending.
Maybe I can give you something from my experience. Basically, I focused on getting to know my clients better before proposing the product to them, and then in a clear and concise way, I explained to them how my product would add long-term value, scalability, and how it would address the changing needs of their companies.