8
How I Got 600 Beta Users and 2,000 Newsletter Signups Pre-Launch
r/indiehackers
6/15/2025
SAAS TOOLS
| SaaS | URL | Category | Features/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Telos | https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/telos-focus-habit-tracker/id6744418601 | Productivity App | Habit tracking, focus timer, app blocking, gamification elements |
| https://www.reddit.com | Social Media/Community Platform | Used for user acquisition, community building, feedback collection | |
| Newsletter | - | Email Marketing | Used for updates, engagement, and building anticipation |
USER NEEDS
Pain Points:
- Lack of validation and feedback during development
- Difficulty acquiring first users without existing audience
- Need for community and engagement
- Struggling with focus and productivity while building products
Problems to Solve:
- Building a user base from scratch
- Getting meaningful feedback during development
- Creating engagement and community around a product
- Helping users stay focused and consistent
Potential Solutions:
- Offering lifetime free access for testing
- Building a community through Reddit
- Sending regular updates and engaging with users
- Creating gamification elements in productivity apps
GROWTH FACTORS
Effective Strategies:
- Focused growth channel strategy (Reddit)
- Building community through engagement
- Offering value (lifetime free access)
- Consistent communication through newsletter
Marketing & Acquisition:
- Targeted subreddit engagement
- Offering incentives for testing
- Building relationships through DMs
Monetization & Product:
- Freemium model with lifetime access
- Gamification elements to increase engagement
- Focus on core features (habit tracking, focus timer)
User Engagement:
- Active community building on Reddit
- Regular updates and feedback loops
- Personal engagement through email chains