The Art of Building for a Highly Opinionated User Base: Lessons from Reddit and the Rise of Curating

The Art of Building for a Highly Opinionated User Base: Lessons from Reddit and the Rise of Curating

Introduction:

Building and maintaining a product that caters to a highly opinionated user base can be challenging. However, by understanding the dynamics of user feedback and embracing the concept of curating, we can navigate these challenges more effectively. In this article, we will explore the lessons learned from Reddit's experience and the rise of curating, providing actionable advice on how to engage with passionate users and create meaningful products.

Understanding User Feedback:

Passionate users are a valuable asset, and it is crucial not to destroy their passion but rather harness it productively. Identifying whom to pay attention to among the loud voices is essential. Often, the loudest individuals do not represent the majority of your user base or the ideal customer profile. To evaluate user feedback effectively, two key factors should be considered: the representation of a significant portion (10% or more) of your user base and the influence these users hold over others' opinions. By focusing on these factors, you can filter out noise and make informed decisions.

The Pitfalls of Public Discussions:

One significant lesson learned from Reddit is that the public square is not the ideal place for nuanced product discussions. Public back-and-forths rarely lead to clarity or alignment. In a public subreddit comment thread, the incentive is often to win the conversation rather than promote understanding. Creating a psychologically safe environment for users to express their opinions and ideas is crucial. By fostering an atmosphere of respect and open dialogue, users are more likely to engage constructively and provide valuable insights.

The Trust Vault and Feedback:

When soliciting feedback from users, it is essential to consider its impact on trust. If you ask for feedback but fail to act on it, you risk losing trust. In fact, not seeking feedback at all may be preferable to asking for it and disregarding it. The golden rule of feedback is simple: ask for feedback only if you genuinely intend to consider it. By respecting users' time and opinions, you can nurture a stronger relationship built on trust and mutual respect.

The Rise of Curating:

In recent years, the concept of curating has gained significant popularity. Curating can be associated with curiosity, as it reflects a desire to know and connect information. The word "curate" has become fashionable, signifying authority, authorship, and meaning. The rise of super-curators who curate exhibitions with a personal touch highlights the importance of curated selections in various domains, such as fashion. Curating is not limited to exhibition making; it encompasses collection-based work and serves as a catalyst, motivator, and bridge builder between artists and the public.

Actionable Advice:

• 1. Embrace feedback selectively: Prioritize feedback that represents a significant portion of your user base and comes from influential users who can shape others' opinions.

• 2. Foster a safe environment for discussions: Create a respectful space where users can express their opinions without fear of judgment. Encourage constructive dialogue that promotes understanding.

• 3. Value user trust in feedback: Only ask for feedback if you genuinely intend to consider it. Respect users' time and opinions, and communicate your decisions transparently.

Conclusion:

Building for a highly opinionated user base requires a delicate balance between understanding user feedback and embracing the concept of curating. By identifying the right voices to listen to, fostering a safe environment for discussions, and valuing user trust in feedback, we can create products that resonate with our passionate users. By incorporating these lessons from Reddit's experience and the rise of curating, we can navigate the challenges of building for opinionated users more effectively and create meaningful experiences.