What features could be added to Reddit's mobile app to improve user engagement and retention?

Introduction

To improve user engagement and retention on Reddit's mobile app, we need to focus on enhancing the core user experience while introducing innovative features that align with Reddit's unique community-driven nature. I'll approach this challenge by first understanding our users and their pain points, then proposing and evaluating solutions that could significantly boost engagement and retention.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (5 mins)

• Looking at Reddit's position in the social media landscape, I'm thinking about its unique value proposition. Could you help me understand what sets Reddit apart from other social platforms and what core problems it solves for users?

Why it matters: This will help us focus on features that enhance Reddit's strengths rather than mimicking competitors. Expected answer: Reddit's strength lies in its niche communities and in-depth discussions. Impact on approach: Would prioritize features that foster community engagement and knowledge sharing.

• Considering the mobile app specifically, I'm curious about user behavior across platforms. Can you share insights on how users typically interact with Reddit across desktop and mobile? Are there any significant differences in usage patterns?

Why it matters: This will help us identify mobile-specific opportunities and pain points. Expected answer: Mobile users tend to consume more content but engage less in discussions. Impact on approach: Would focus on features that make it easier to participate in discussions on mobile.

• Given the focus on improving engagement and retention, I'm interested in understanding the current metrics. What are the key engagement metrics for the Reddit mobile app, and how do they compare to industry benchmarks?

Why it matters: This will help us set realistic goals and prioritize features that impact the most critical metrics. Expected answer: Time spent in app and daily active users are below industry average, but user-generated content is high. Impact on approach: Would prioritize features that increase time spent and return visits while leveraging the strong content creation.

• Thinking about Reddit's product lifecycle, where would you say the mobile app currently stands? Are we looking to expand the user base, improve retention of existing users, or both?

Why it matters: This will help us balance between features for acquisition and retention. Expected answer: The app is in a growth phase, but retention is becoming a key focus. Impact on approach: Would emphasize features that improve the core experience for existing users while also considering ways to attract new users.