Substack Feature Prioritization | Product Trade-off Interview

Table of contents

Should Substack prioritize features for individual writers or focus on tools for publications with multiple contributors?

Strategic Thinking User Segmentation Data Analysis Digital Publishing Content Creation SaaS

Product Strategy Feature Prioritization User Segmentation Growth Content Platforms

Introduction

The trade-off we're examining today is whether Substack should prioritize features for individual writers or focus on tools for publications with multiple contributors. This decision is crucial for Substack's growth strategy and user experience. I'll analyze this trade-off by considering user needs, business impact, and technical feasibility.

Analysis Approach

I'd like to start by asking a few clarifying questions to ensure we're aligned on the context and objectives of this decision. Then, I'll walk you through my analysis framework, covering product understanding, hypothesis formation, metrics identification, experiment design, and ultimately, a recommendation with next steps.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

Context: I'm thinking about Substack's current market position. Could you share any recent shifts in user demographics or content trends that might influence this decision?

Why it matters: Helps tailor features to evolving user needs Expected answer: Increase in niche professional publications Impact: Would lean towards multi-contributor tools if confirmed

Business Context: Based on Substack's revenue model, I assume this decision could impact monetization. How does our current revenue split between individual writers and multi-contributor publications?

Why it matters: Aligns product strategy with revenue drivers Expected answer: 70% from individuals, 30% from publications Impact: Would prioritize individual features if gap is significant

User Impact: I'm curious about user engagement patterns. Have we seen any differences in reader retention between individual newsletters and multi-contributor publications?

Why it matters: Identifies which model drives long-term platform value Expected answer: Higher retention for multi-contributor content Impact: Would strengthen case for publication tools if confirmed

Technical: Considering our current architecture, how much additional complexity would multi-contributor tools introduce compared to enhancing individual writer features?

Why it matters: Assesses feasibility and resource requirements Expected answer: Moderate increase in complexity Impact: Would influence timeline and resource allocation

Resource: I'm thinking about our team structure. Do we have dedicated teams for individual writer experience and publication tools, or would this require a reallocation of resources?

Why it matters: Determines implementation capacity and potential trade-offs Expected answer: One team handling both areas Impact: Would necessitate careful prioritization and phased approach

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