The Power of Imitation and Innovation in SaaS and Creative Endeavors

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Sep 13, 2023

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The Power of Imitation and Innovation in SaaS and Creative Endeavors

Introduction:

In the world of software-as-a-service (SaaS), the daily active users (DAU) versus monthly active users (MAU) ratio is a crucial metric for measuring the stickiness and engagement of a product. DAU represents the number of unique users who interact with an app on a given day, while MAU refers to the number of users who engage with the app within a 30-day period. A high DAU/MAU ratio signifies frequent engagement and user loyalty. However, achieving a balance between imitation and innovation is equally important in the pursuit of success, as highlighted by the motto "Imitate, then Innovate."

The Importance of DAU/MAU Ratio and Stickiness in SaaS:

The DAU/MAU ratio is a key indicator of a SaaS company's success. A higher ratio implies that users are actively returning to the app, indicating its stickiness. On the other hand, a lower ratio suggests lower user engagement and the need for improvement. The average DAU/MAU ratio for SaaS companies falls between 10-20%. However, what constitutes a "good" ratio depends on various factors, including the nature of the app and its pricing model.

Imitate, then Innovate: A Path to Unique Style:

Imitating others may seem counterintuitive when striving for originality, but it is a valuable approach for discovering one's unique style. Taking inspiration from the words of Conan O'Brien, our failure to become our perceived ideal ultimately defines us and makes us unique. By imitating and studying the works of others, we can uncover our creative personalities and develop a deeper understanding of our own preferences and strengths.

The Pitfalls of Misunderstanding Inspiration and Fetishizing Originality:

There are three common pitfalls when it comes to embracing imitation and innovation. Firstly, some individuals fear that imitating others' work will taint their minds and hinder their originality. However, studying and reverse-engineering existing work can provide valuable insights and inspiration. Secondly, fetishizing originality often stems from academia, where the focus is on doing something different from those who came before. This mindset can hinder true innovation, as it overlooks the benefits of building upon existing knowledge and ideas. Lastly, excessive self-obsession can hinder the creative process. By solely focusing on being original, individuals may miss out on the power of collaboration and the influence of external perspectives.

Imitation as a Foundation for Innovation:

The historical examples of Albert Einstein and musicians highlight the importance of imitation as a foundation for innovation. Einstein's breakthroughs in physics were built upon decades of studying classical physicists, while musicians spend countless hours practicing scales to harness the creative powers of those they admire. The fear of plagiarism often discourages imitation, but it is essential to distinguish between stealing someone's work without credit and mirroring the style or values of an admired individual. Imitation can lead to unique insights and breakthroughs.

The Lost Art of Imitation in Modern Education:

The rise of mass schooling and the emphasis on codified knowledge through textbooks have resulted in the loss of the transmission of technique and tacit knowledge. The ability to communicate certain skills in words varies, and imitative learning plays a crucial role in developing these skills. For example, reading extensively can enhance one's writing skills, even if the principles of effective writing are challenging to articulate. Imitation helps us discover our creative voice and refine our intuition for quality work.

Near and Far Imitation: Balancing Individualism and Innovation:

Imitation does not imply becoming a carbon copy of others. Near imitation involves studying and emulating the works of others within the same field, while far imitation involves transferring ideas from one domain to another. Both approaches can be valuable in fostering innovation and originality. However, the danger lies in the homogeneity of style that arises when individuals copy one another to impress peers within tightly networked environments. The most successful innovators combine near and far imitations, allowing them to learn from established practices while also introducing novel ideas when necessary.

Actionable Advice:

  • 1. Embrace imitation: Don't shy away from studying and imitating the works of others. It is through imitation that we can discover our unique style and creative preferences.
  • 2. Balance imitation and innovation: Understand the value of near imitation, learning from established practices, and far imitation, transferring ideas across domains. This balance will foster both individualism and innovation.
  • 3. Prioritize quality over originality: Rather than fixating on being original, focus on producing high-quality work that effectively communicates your ideas. Originality should be a byproduct of your dedication to excellence.

Conclusion:

The DAU/MAU ratio is a crucial metric for measuring user engagement in the SaaS industry. However, achieving success requires striking a balance between imitation and innovation. By imitating the works of others, we can uncover our unique style and creative preferences. Imitation serves as a foundation for innovation, allowing us to build upon existing knowledge and ideas. The modern education system has undervalued the importance of imitation, leading to a loss of tacit knowledge and technique transmission. Balancing near and far imitations is essential to maintain individualism and promote innovation. By embracing imitation and innovation in our pursuits, we can unlock our creative potential and achieve meaningful success.

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