How can Wattpad balance maintaining a supportive community for amateur writers while attracting established authors to increase platform credibility?

Introduction

Balancing the needs of amateur writers with the desire to attract established authors is a critical trade-off for Wattpad's growth and credibility. This scenario touches on community dynamics, user experience, and platform positioning. I'll analyze this trade-off by examining stakeholder impacts, metrics, and potential experiments to inform a strategic recommendation.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

• Context: I'm thinking Wattpad's current user base is primarily amateur writers. Could you share the current ratio of amateur to established authors on the platform?

Why it matters: Helps understand the scale of the shift we're considering Expected answer: 90% amateur, 10% established Impact on approach: A higher percentage of established authors might require a different strategy

• Business Context: Based on Wattpad's business model, I assume attracting established authors is part of a monetization strategy. Is this correct, and if so, what's the primary revenue model we're targeting?

Why it matters: Aligns solution with business objectives Expected answer: Yes, targeting increased premium subscriptions or content licensing Impact on approach: Would influence features and incentives offered to established authors

• User Impact: I'm curious about the engagement patterns of our current users. What's the average time spent on the platform for amateur writers vs. readers?

Why it matters: Helps identify potential risks to core user base Expected answer: Amateur writers spend 2x more time than readers Impact on approach: Would need to ensure new features don't alienate core users

• Technical: Considering the potential influx of established authors, are there any current technical limitations in terms of content management or user verification?

Why it matters: Identifies potential roadblocks or necessary infrastructure upgrades Expected answer: Current system can handle increase, but verification process needs improvement Impact on approach: Might need to prioritize backend improvements before full rollout

• Timeline: Is there a specific timeframe we're working with for implementing changes to attract established authors?

Why it matters: Influences the scope and pace of potential solutions Expected answer: Aiming for initial changes within 6 months Impact on approach: Would determine whether to pursue a phased approach or more comprehensive overhaul