User-generated content
User-generated content (UGC) refers to any form of content created by users of a product or service. This can include reviews, comments, photos, videos, or any other content that users create and share. UGC provides authentic social proof and can significantly enhance engagement and trust in your platform.
Benefits and Use Cases
Increases authenticity. UGC provides genuine, unfiltered perspectives from real users, enhancing credibility.
Example
Display a feed of recently created public clusters on Cluster's dashboard, showcasing the diverse ways users are utilizing the platform.
Encourages engagement. Seeing content from peers can motivate users to contribute their own content.
Example
Implement a "Community Insights" section within each Cluster, where users can share their own summaries or key takeaways from the content.
Provides fresh content. UGC can continually refresh your platform with new, relevant content.
Example
Feature a "Cluster of the Week" on Cluster's homepage, highlighting innovative uses of the platform by the community.
Offers diverse perspectives. UGC can provide a range of viewpoints and use cases that you might not have considered.
Example
Create a "Use Case Spotlight" section where users can submit and vote on unique ways they're using Cluster in their workflows.
Psychological Principles Supported
Social Proof. UGC directly demonstrates that others are actively using and benefiting from your product.
Example
Show real-time counters of active users or content pieces being created on Cluster's dashboard.
Belongingness. Seeing and contributing UGC can foster a sense of community among users.
Example
Implement a "Contributor of the Month" feature to recognize active Cluster users who share valuable insights or templates.
IKEA Effect. Users tend to value products more when they've contributed to them in some way.
Example
Allow users to create and share custom content organization templates in Cluster, which others can use and modify.
Implementation Guidelines
DON'T
Use UGC without user permission
Ignore the potential for misuse or inappropriate content
Overwhelm your interface with UGC
Forget to engage with UGC contributors
Neglect to update or remove outdated UGC
DO
Provide clear guidelines for UGC submissions
Implement a moderation system to ensure quality and appropriateness
Make it easy for users to create and share content
Showcase high-quality UGC prominently
Encourage UGC through incentives or gamification