25
I shipped a real product for the first time. And... nothing.
r/SideProject
7/15/2025
Content Summary
A developer launched FastCompressor, an offline image compression desktop app after 2 months of work but gained minimal traction. The post discusses challenges in product validation and marketing, while commenters share their own projects and suggest growth strategies like B2B marketing and UX improvements. Multiple SaaS tools across different categories are showcased in the discussion.
Opinion Analysis
Mainstream opinions emphasize the importance of market validation and targeted marketing. There's consensus that 2 months is too early to judge success. Conflicting views exist between 'build-it-and-they-will-come' optimism vs rigorous demand validation approaches. Debates center on whether to focus on niche markets versus broader solutions. Some advocate for community building while others stress technical improvements first.
SAAS TOOLS
| SaaS | URL | Category | Features/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| FastCompressor | https://fastcompressor.com | Image Compression | Offline desktop app, no file size limits, batch processing |
| NotesQR | https://notesqr.com | File Sharing | P2P service, no uploads/registration, cross-device |
| IndieHQ | https://www.indiehq.org | Business Management | Alternative to QuickBooks, reduced fees |
| HarmoniQ | https://apps.apple.com/app/harmoniq | Music Education | Perfect pitch training, niche market focus |
| VibeCoderPal | https://vibecoderpal.it | Developer Tools | VS Code/Cursor extension with personalized coding tips |
| TakeMy.Info | [No URL] | Resume Tools | One-click shareable portfolio generator |
| TestVise | http://testvise.com | AI Analytics | Personality-based insights using AI |
USER NEEDS
Pain Points:
- Lack of marketing/social media presence
- Difficulty validating product-market fit
- Payment integration issues
- User onboarding friction (e.g. OTP errors)
Problems to Solve:
- Need for efficient image compression without file limits
- Secure file sharing without uploads/registration
- Affordable business management tools
- Personalized coding education
Potential Solutions:
- B2B marketing strategies
- User experience improvements (payment flow fixes)
- Community building in niche markets
- Organic growth through user reviews/testimonials
GROWTH FACTORS
Effective Strategies:
- Niche market targeting (e.g. mobile game advertisers)
- Organic community engagement
- Steady iteration based on user feedback
Marketing & Acquisition:
- Social media marketing (currently missing)
- Leveraging existing communities
- Showcasing user reviews on homepage
Monetization & Product:
- Free tools with premium features
- Avoiding unnecessary fees (e.g. Stripe alternatives)
- Focus on specific use cases vs broad solutions
User Engagement:
- Cross-promotion among builders
- Early beta programs for feedback
- Educational content integration (coding tips)