What Makes Great Products? (5 Steps Every Founder Must Follow)

Most founders get this wrong:

‘Like’ isn’t what keeps users coming back.

2 years ago, I thought I cracked the code to building good products.

⚠(Spoiler Alert: I was wrong.)

I believed:

- If users like my product, it’s enough.
- Solving inconveniences makes a good product.
- Positive feedback = success.

But I quickly learned a harsh truth:

- Likes ≠ Necessity.
- Solving small issues doesn’t create a “must-have” product.
- Positive feedback ≠ long-term success or retention.

That’s when I knew I had to pivot.

So, how do you ensure your product is a ‘must-have’?

Here’s what I learned:

1. Measure Product Retention

If users keep coming back without constant reminders, that’s a good sign.

Track retention — loyalty matters more than likes.

2. Identify Real Pain Points

Are you solving a problem that’s truly painful for users?

Not just an inconvenience, but a genuine challenge that disrupts their day.

3. Look for User Advocacy

Do customers recommend you to others?

If your product turns users into advocates, you’ve hit the jackpot.

4. Conduct Market Research

Understand your competitors and market trends.

This will show you what makes your product stand out — and what to improve.

5. Ask the Right Questions

“How essential is our product to you?”
“What would happen if you stopped using it tomorrow?”

If you’re unsure where your product stands, don’t worry.

It means there’s room to iterate and improve.

P.S. Would your users care if your product disappeared tomorrow?

If not, it’s time to rethink your approach.

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👋. I’m Othmane, your guide from ‘nice’ to ‘must-have’ products.

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