Glossary
What is review generation?
Review generation is the work of getting customers to leave reviews on software review sites, app stores and marketplaces. Reviews drive rankings on those sites, build social proof and feed the comparisons AI assistants read. Platforms require reviews to be genuine; paying for positive reviews breaks their rules and consumer law.
When to ask
After a success moment: a project shipped, a renewal, a support issue solved, a milestone reached in the product. The request should come from a person, briefly, with a direct link to the review form.
Rules to respect
- Platforms like G2 and Capterra allow small, equal incentives for any honest review in some cases, but not payment for positive reviews; read each one's policy.
- The US FTC's rule on consumer reviews bans fake reviews, buying positive reviews and suppressing negative ones.
- Don't write reviews for your own product or ask employees to.
Why reviews matter beyond the site
Review sites rank highly on Google for "best X" searches and are among the sources AI assistants read when comparing products. A product with recent, specific reviews is easier for both to recommend.
Example
A SaaS adds a review request to its success email after a customer's tenth project. Over three months it gathers 30 reviews on two review sites, enters both sites' category grids, and begins appearing in AI answers comparing tools in its category. See getting your first reviews.
FAQ
Can I offer a gift card for reviews?
Some platforms allow small incentives for any honest review; never only for positive ones. Check the platform's policy.
How many reviews do I need?
Enough recent reviews to appear in category pages; on big sites that's often ten or more.
Should I reply to negative reviews?
Yes, calmly and helpfully. Readers notice responses.