How does a a online community gain initial users prior to launch?


1

Web startups with the theme of a "community" as in let's say a Match.com, a roommate finding service or even this site for that matter....my question is how do they gain their initial users? I am referring to a small scale operation with small scale funds. Is that what Beta testing is, where a static URL page briefly details the future website asking for those interested to submit their info so that when the site is launched it already has users?? I am sure this is not the case, but the question I have is how does a website initially get a decent amount of users with profiles so that when the site is launched the visitors love the concept, but do not love that there are only 3 other active profiles and unbeknownst to them they are the sites founders. :D Those of you with expertise, please be kind enough to answer this lingering question for me. Thanks, Marcus.

Launch Website Community Memberships

asked Mar 12 '12 at 13:32
Blank
M Ant29 M Ant29
6 points
Top digital marketing agency for SEO, content marketing, and PR: Demand Roll

1 Answer


2

Communities are usually started by people who are part of an existing one but not necessarily online. You should know there is a need before building the site.

A beta site would be at least a partially working site where the users provide feedback on how it works and recommend new features.

If you can't email 10 people you think would use your new site, I wouldn't start building anything unil you can find more interest. The few people you do know can be a base for spreading the idea assuming this is important enough.

answered Mar 12 '12 at 20:36
Blank
Jeff O
6,169 points

Your Answer

  • Bold
  • Italic
  • • Bullets
  • 1. Numbers
  • Quote
Not the answer you're looking for? Ask your own question or browse other questions in these topics:

Launch Website Community Memberships