What is the New Feature Discovery Process & Examples

Attention, Product Managers!

Imagine a whole user journey where grasping your users’ needs isn’t a task but an exhilarating step towards innovation.

Uncover the secrets of seamless and feature adoption and discovery with us—a thrilling promise that can revolutionise SaaS product adoption.

Despite being a vital process, integrating it into product management remains a challenge.

There are broadly 3 main reasons, namely:

1. Feature delivery vs. discovery
   Companies, in their haste to meet market demands, often prioritize delivering features without fully understanding the underlying reasons. This rush can hinder the essential process of feature discovery, potentially leading to products that fail to satisfy user needs truly.
2. Lack of time
   As a Product Manager, time is a precious commodity, and the perpetual struggle against its constraints is real. The constant juggling act between meeting deadlines and investing the requisite time and resources into the intricacies of feature discovery can be overwhelming. Imagine a scenario: a pivotal feature deadline looms, demanding immediate attention. In this critical juncture, allocating time and resources to thorough feature discovery takes a backseat.
3. Stakeholder management challenges
   Navigating stakeholder management, the survey phase in the discovery process can be challenging without proper tools.
   
   A streamlined survey process is crucial, as its absence complicates stakeholder interactions and introduces bottlenecks in decision-making.

In the following sections, we embark on a journey to unravel the systematic steps of new feature discovery, providing actionable strategies, real-world examples, and tools, including the powerful Usersnap survey template, to empower you, Product Managers, to overcome these challenges and revolutionize your approach to feature discovery.

Decoding the new feature discovery process: Strategies and examples

Let’s dive into essential strategies and real-world examples that not only improve feature discovery not only demystify this process but empower product managers to navigate towards ongoing feature discovery success.

Systematic steps and stages: A roadmap to success

The journey begins with a structured approach to new feature discovery. Rather than a chaotic endeavour, envision it as a well-laid roadmap. 

The first step is to understand your users’ needs and pain points. Conduct thorough market research and user interviews to gain insights into what your audience truly desires.

For example, when Netflix introduced its “Skip Intro” feature, it identified a common user behaviour of skipping the opening credits. This insight led to a simple yet impactful feature that significantly improved the user experience. This initial stage is crucial for laying the foundation of feature development through a deep understanding of user requirements and preferences.

Following user understanding, move on to ideation. Brainstorm potential features that align with user needs and your product vision.

Airbnb, for instance, regularly conducts brainstorming sessions where cross-functional teams collaborate to generate innovative feature ideas, fostering a culture of creativity.

Ideation shapes the product direction, ensuring core features that are both functional and aligned with user expectations.

Next comes prototyping and testing. Create a prototype of your feature and gather user feedback through testing.

Google’s practice of releasing beta versions of a feature updates its products, such as Gmail, is an exemplary approach. This not only gauges user reactions but also allows for refinement before a full-scale launch. Prototyping and testing are vital to validate features, ensuring they meet objectives and address user needs effectively.

Unlocking secrets for implementation

Implementing feature discovery need not be a daunting task. The secret lies in aligning the discovery process seamlessly with your existing product management framework. Ensure clear communication and collaboration among cross-functional teams, fostering an environment where everyone understands the value of feature discovery.

Take inspiration from Slack, a prime example of a platform that champions open communication and idea-sharing within teams. By embedding this cultural ethos, Slack has consistently unearthed and implemented features that elevate team collaboration. This success story underscores the importance of integrating feature discovery seamlessly into the broader product management strategy.

Moreover, leverage tools that facilitate the discovery process. Tools like the Usersnap survey streamline the collection of user feedback, making it easier for product managers to gather insights efficiently.

Inspiring product managers: Strategies for continuous improvement

The journey doesn’t end with the implementation of a single feature; instead, it’s a continuous process of refinement and innovation. Inspiring product managers to embrace this mindset is crucial for sustained success.

Encourage a culture of curiosity within your team. Google’s famous “20% time” policy, where employees are encouraged to spend a portion of their workweek on personal projects, has led to the creation of several successful features, including Gmail and Google News. Granting employees the freedom to explore their interests cultivates a creative environment, fostering the ongoing discovery of successful and influential new features throughout.

Additionally, fosters a feedback loop. Regularly seek input from users and analyze product metrics to identify areas for improvement. Amazon’s customer-centric approach, exemplified by features like one-click purchasing and personalized recommendations, showcases the power of continuous refinement based on user feedback.

How to craft survey templates for new feature discovery

A reliable tool to streamline new feature discovery tasks can be a game-changer.

Enter Usersnap – a powerhouse designed to harness the collective power of user engagement and streamlined discovery processes.

Let’s explore how Usersnap becomes your go-to tool promote feature discovery, utilizing survey templates and real-world examples, exemplifying its pivotal role in successful feature discoveries.

Usersnap: Easily implement feature discovery and your go-to tool for improving user engagement

Usersnap isn’t just another tool; it’s the key to unlocking seamless user onboarding and new feature discovery. Its survey capabilities empower product managers to gather valuable insights from users, providing a direct line to understand their needs and preferences.

Consider a scenario where a project manager at a software company wanted to introduce a new collaboration feature to help users.

By utilizing Usersnap, they were able to create targeted surveys that delved into user preferences, pain points, and expectations regarding collaboration tools. The result? A feature tailored precisely to user needs, enhancing user engagement and satisfaction.

The power of Usersnap lies not just in collecting data but in turning that data into actionable insights.

The ability to customize surveys ensures that product managers ask the right questions at the right time, enabling a deeper understanding of user expectations.

Utilizing Usersnap’s survey templates: Encourage feature discovery process

One of Usersnap’s standout features is its collection of survey templates, designed to simplify the entire discovery process.

These templates serve as a strategic starting point, providing a framework that ensures you cover all the essential aspects of feature discovery.

Imagine you’re launching a survey to understand how users interact with your product’s current features. 

Usersnap’s pre-built templates for usability testing can be a lifesaver. By leveraging these templates, you not only save time but also ensure that your survey is comprehensive and targeted.

Let’s take inspiration from a real-life scenario: Rohit, a product manager at a tech startup, used Usersnap’s feature request template to gather user feedback on potential enhancements.

The structured template allowed him to collect specific information, categorize requests, and prioritize relevant features based on user demand.

As a result, the team successfully implemented features that resonated with their user base.

Practical scenarios: Usersnap in action

As part of the accommodation team of an Online Travel Agency, I was working on improving the “Add to Cart” and by utilizing custom surveys, I was able to gauge the user sentiment and pain points regarding the discontent in the price shown on “Search Result Page” versus the one calculated after including the taxes & fees on the “Add to Cart” page. 

These insights and inputs by the end users helped me to make a conscious decision to show the Total price inclusive of all charges to be shown on the Search Result Page, which was a diversion from the rest of the competitors, but the decision helped to improve the overall experience of the users on the platform and helped to build trust with the end users.

Naming ideation & validation: Elevating new features through strategic naming

A well-crafted name not only captures the essence of a feature but also plays a crucial role in its adoption and success.

In this section, we’ll delve into the importance of strategic naming, explore effective ideation and validation strategies, and draw inspiration from successful examples that highlight the transformative power of a well-chosen name.

Understanding the significance of strategic naming

Naming is not just a formality; it’s a strategic move that can influence how users perceive and engage with a few feature related content.

A compelling name should be memorable, reflect the feature’s functionality, and align with the overall brand identity.

Consider the impact that names like “Instagram Stories” or “Amazon Prime” have had on user recognition and loyalty.

The right name sets the stage for user expectations. For instance, a fitness app introducing a new calorie-tracking feature might opt for a name like “NutriTrack,” instantly conveying its purpose to users.

Strategic naming goes beyond mere identification; it serves as a communication tool, conveying the value proposition the benefits of a feature succinctly and compellingly.

Strategies for ideation of feature names

Effective ideation of feature names involves a blend of creativity, clarity, and relevance. Here are some strategies to inspire the brainstorming process:

• Reflect Core Functionality: The name should provide a hint of what the feature does. For example, Microsoft’s “OneDrive” succinctly conveys its purpose of being the singular place for all your files.
• Align with Brand Identity: Ensure that the chosen name aligns with the overall brand image. Google’s suite of applications, such as Gmail and Google Drive, maintains a consistent and recognizable nomenclature.
• Consider User Appeal: Think about how the name will resonate with your target audience. Snapchat’s “Discover” feature speaks to the platform’s youthful and exploratory user base.
• Embrace Simplicity: Keep it simple and easy to remember. Apple’s “AirDrop” effortlessly conveys the concept of wireless file sharing.
• Cultural Relevance: Consider cultural nuances to ensure the name resonates globally. Uber’s feature “UberEATS” aligns with the cultural shift towards convenient food delivery.

Validation of feature names: Ensuring resonance and impact

Once potential names are generated, the next crucial step is validation. This process ensures that the selected name not only resonates with the product team but, more importantly, with the target audience. 

Here are strategies for effective validation:

• User Surveys and Feedback: Leverage Usersnap or similar tools to conduct surveys, gathering feedback on proposed names. Analyzing user sentiments provides valuable insights into name preferences.
• A/B Testing: Consider A/B testing different names with a subset of your user base. Monitor user engagement and reactions to each variation to determine which name performs better.
• Focus Groups: Engage in-depth with a select group of users through focus group sessions. Observe their reactions, preferences, and associations with each proposed name.
• Social Media Polls: Utilize social media platforms to conduct polls and gather opinions from a broader audience. The interactive nature of social media facilitates user participation.

Successful examples: Where naming made a difference

• Apple’s Siri: The name “Siri” not only reflects the functionality of a virtual assistant but also adds a personal and approachable touch, contributing to its widespread recognition.
• Tesla’s Autopilot: The name “Autopilot” communicates advanced driving assistance while capturing the imagination of a future where cars drive themselves.
• Slack’s Channels: Slack’s feature “Channels” simplifies communication organization, aligning with the platform’s focus on streamlining collaboration.
• Netflix’s Watch Party: During the pandemic, Netflix introduced the “Watch Party” feature, emphasizing shared viewing experiences and connectivity during social distancing.

Conclusion: How feature discovery can affect product adoption

Delving into a well-organized feature discovery process is like having a trusted companion on the challenging road of product development. 

It’s a thoughtful strategy that breathes life into the stages of ideation, prototyping, and testing, elevating the overall user experience.

As PMs, the real power lies in the hands of us, who are equipped with practical insights and tools such as Usersnap, making the discovery process not only manageable but downright exhilarating.

Usersnap, with its array of survey templates and customization options, emerges as a game-changer, simplifying the collection of user feedback and empowering product managers like me to yield transformative results.

Gear up, Product Managers! Diving into a user-centric feature discovery isn’t just smart—it’s the ultimate power move for long-term success in the product game. It’s not a philosophy; it’s a financial necessity. 

By putting users first, you’re not just ensuring satisfaction but also stacking up the wins for your organization’s bottom line in the ever-evolving world of product adoption. 

Let’s adopt it strategically!