Glossary
Who are early adopters?
Early adopters are the first group of customers willing to try a new product before it's proven, often because they feel the problem strongly and enjoy discovering new tools. In Everett Rogers' diffusion of innovations model they come after innovators. Launch platforms and directories are full of them.
Where they come from
Rogers' diffusion of innovations model splits adopters into innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority and laggards. Geoffrey Moore's Crossing the Chasm argues the gap between early adopters and the early majority is where many products stall.
Where to find them
- Launch platforms like Product Hunt, whose audience is people who enjoy trying new products.
- Prelaunch directories like BetaList.
- Communities: Indie Hackers, subreddits, Discord and Slack groups.
- AI tool directories, where visitors browse new tools daily.
What they expect
A real solution to a real problem, direct access to the founders, and fast improvements. They forgive missing features but not a product that doesn't do its main job.
Early adopters vs mainstream
| Early adopters | Mainstream |
|---|---|
| Seek new tools | Wait for proof |
| Accept rough edges | Expect polish and support |
| Give feedback | Expect it to work |
| Find you on launch platforms | Find you through search, peers and sales |
Example
A new AI tool's first 500 users come from Product Hunt and BetaList. They report bugs within hours and suggest features; 50 become paying customers who later write the first reviews.
FAQ
How do I find early adopters?
Launch platforms, prelaunch directories and communities where people discuss your problem.
Are early adopters good customers?
Often the best feedback; some churn as they chase the next new tool.
What is crossing the chasm?
Moving from early adopters to mainstream customers, who need more proof and polish.