If you want to keep fans engaged, let them know where you’re going.
Nothing is more frustrating than being dependent on a product and never knowing when they are going to make it better. We’ve abandoned more than one vendor because "that feature will be out someday" just isn’t good enough. I can’t run my business based on your secret plans.
Use a blog or email newsletter to keep users updated on product features, fixes, and what you’ll be adding next. Let them post their ideas and suggestions.
- Users will be thrilled to know how the product is going to improve.
- You turn frustration into anticipation.
- Your fans have something to talk about (more word of mouth!).
Here’s a great example from Wild Apricot: 1 2 3
(Apple gets away with the secrecy, but it still makes users angry. And you’re not Apple.)