Better GitHub Issues with HuBoard (Interview)

Conversion Strategy

Ryan Built shares the challenges and strategies behind transitioning HuBoard from a free service to a paid model. He decided against grandfathering existing users, instead offering a six-month free trial to those who signed up within the first year. This approach resulted in losing a large portion of the initial user base, but it was a necessary step for sustainable growth.

When you take a thing from free to for pay, you know, out of the blue, a lot of people go the route of grandfathering in, you know, the people that are already using it. I didn't do that.

--- Ryan Built

Despite the initial loss, Ryan's strategy eventually led to hiring his first full-time employee, marking a significant milestone for HuBoard's growth 1.

   

Business Impact

The transition to a paid model significantly impacted HuBoard's business trajectory. Initially launched in 2012, HuBoard quickly gained traction, reaching 400 users within four months without any marketing efforts. By October 2013, Ryan had formed an LLC and began charging for the service, despite competition offering similar products for a fee.

So you had all these free users and there was all this interest and buzz despite no marketing.

--- Jerod Santo

This move was crucial as it allowed HuBoard to compete effectively and sustain its growth, even as competitors emerged 2.