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How to get useful feedback on a project you just built
Most builders wait too long to show anyone. Early feedback is cheap and the earlier a flaw is found, the less it costs to fix.
Show it before it is ready
A rough version that works on the main path is enough. People can react to something real far better than to a description.
Ask a specific question
- Instead of “what do you think?”, ask “was it clear what to do first?”
- Instead of “is it good?”, ask “what would stop you using it?”
- Ask one thing at a time.
Watch people use it
If you can, watch someone try it without helping. Where they hesitate is where your design is unclear.
Ask other builders
People who build are generous with feedback and understand the stage you are at. Share a short entry about what you are unsure of and invite answers.
Sort what you hear
- Fix what several people trip on.
- Note what one person asks for, and wait to see if it repeats.
- Ignore feedback that is about a different product than the one you are making.
Thank people and show the result
Write an entry about what you changed because of their feedback. It rewards the people who helped and shows the project moving.
Keep your own build log
Write numbered entries, follow other builders, and let people watch your idea become real.
Join vibFolioIn vibFolio
- Stuck on one thing? Say so, and get an answer
- Follow the builder, or only the project
- Message the people building the thing you like