Mastering Feature Selection in SaaS Development: Insights from SavvyCal's Journey

As software as a service (SaaS) developers, one of the most challenging aspects we face is determining which features to prioritize and develop next. With an endless stream of feature requests, it's crucial to discern which ones align with your product's vision and which ones to set aside. In a detailed discussion with Derek Reimer, a seasoned product expert behind the innovative scheduling app SavvyCal, we delve into the decision-making process for selecting the next features to develop, providing valuable insights for fellow SaaS developers and founders.

Deciding on New Features

When it comes to introducing new features, Derek emphasizes the importance of not blindly following customer requests. Instead, he suggests considering several factors to ensure that each new feature aligns with the product's long-term vision and philosophy. One key practice is maintaining a backlog of feature requests and revisiting them periodically to identify patterns and gauge demand.

Philosophy Alignment and User Demand

One recent feature that SavvyCal introduced allows users to require approval for new bookings before they appear on the calendar. This feature was not just a simple response to user requests but a carefully considered addition that aligned with SavvyCal's philosophy of helping users guard their time more effectively. By evaluating the strong demand from power users and ensuring the feature did not complicate the user experience unnecessarily, Derek and his team decided it was the right move.

Features to Avoid

Conversely, there are features that, despite seeming beneficial on the surface, do not align with the product's direction or could introduce unnecessary complexity. For instance, SMS notifications, while commonly requested, were ultimately not pursued by SavvyCal. Derek highlights the technical and regulatory challenges associated with SMS, as well as a personal belief that their target users—primarily business professionals—would not find significant value in such notifications. This decision underscores the importance of not just listening to what users say they want but also considering the broader implications for the product and its user base.

The Power of Saying No

A key takeaway from Derek's approach is the critical role of discernment in feature development. By being selective and focusing on features that truly align with the product's core vision, SaaS developers can avoid the pitfalls of overextension and feature bloat. This not only ensures a more cohesive user experience but also helps maintain a clear and distinct product identity in a crowded market.

Staying True to Your Vision

Derek's experience with SavvyCal serves as a powerful reminder that successful SaaS development is not about catering to every customer request but about carefully choosing which features to develop based on a deep understanding of your users and your product's unique value proposition. This selective approach to feature development can help SaaS companies build products that not only meet but exceed user expectations, fostering loyalty and driving long-term success.

In conclusion, navigating the complex landscape of SaaS feature development requires a balanced approach that considers user demand, product philosophy, and the practical implications of each new feature. By following the insights shared by Derek Reimer and applying a thoughtful, strategic approach to feature selection, SaaS developers can create products that stand out in a competitive market while staying true to their vision.

For a more in-depth look at the conversation with Derek Reimer and further insights into the decision-making process behind SavvyCal's feature development, check out the full video here.