Evan Spiegel, the co-founder and CEO of Snapchat, has made a significant impact on the tech world with his innovative approach to building tech products.
Here are the strategies he uses.
Start with a unique vision
One of the core reasons for Spiegel’s success is his ability to envision products that stand out.
When Snapchat was launched in 2011, the idea of disappearing messages was novel.
Spiegel realized that people, especially teenagers, wanted a platform where they could share moments without the pressure of permanence.
This unique vision set Snapchat apart from other social media platforms and attracted millions of users.
Focus on user experience
Spiegel places a strong emphasis on user experience (UX). He understands that a product’s success depends on how well it meets the needs and preferences of its users.
For instance, Snapchat’s interface is designed to be simple and intuitive, allowing users to easily capture and share moments.
Features like Stories, which let users post photos and videos that disappear after 24 hours, cater to the desire for temporary, real-time sharing.
Innovate continuously
Continuous innovation is a hallmark of Spiegel’s approach.
Snapchat regularly introduces new features to keep users engaged and attract new ones.
A prime example is the introduction of augmented reality (AR) filters, which let users add playful and interactive elements to their photos and videos. These filters have become a defining feature of Snapchat and have been widely imitated by other platforms.
Iterate and improve
Evan Spiegel understands the importance of iterating and improving products based on user feedback.
When Snapchat first introduced the Stories feature, it received mixed reactions. However, by listening to users and making necessary adjustments, Snapchat refined Stories into one of its most popular features.
This willingness to iterate and improve helps ensure that the product continues to meet user expectations.
Keep it fun and engaging
Spiegel’s emphasis on fun and engagement is evident in Snapchat’s features.
The app includes creative tools like lenses, filters, and Bitmojis that make sharing more enjoyable.
For example, Snapchat’s AR lenses allow users to transform their faces or surroundings in real-time, adding a playful element to their snaps. This focus on fun helps keep users coming back and spending more time on the app.
Conclusion
Evan Spiegel’s approach to building tech products is characterized by a unique vision, a strong focus on user experience, continuous innovation, iterative improvements, and an emphasis on fun.
These principles have driven Snapchat’s success and can serve as valuable lessons for anyone looking to scale their tech product.