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Let's have a discussion on the "Streak" system of Product Hunt
Hey, Product Hunt community 👋
As both a maker and data scientist, I've been analyzing engagement patterns on Product Hunt, and something about the streak system has been bothering me. Let me share my thoughts, and I'd love to hear yours.
The current streak system seems to be an oversimplified metric that might actually be counterproductive to genuine community engagement. Here's why:
Translating This to The Data Problem:
1. A user with a 365-day streak might just be logging in daily without meaningful interaction
2. Someone with a broken streak could be writing detailed reviews and launching successful products
3. The binary nature (streak/no-streak) doesn't capture the quality of engagement
The Psychology Impact:
When a high-value community member loses their 300-day streak due to a personal emergency or technical issue, they face a demotivating "start from zero" situation. Should a year of valuable contributions be nullified by one missed day?
Questions for the Community:
I hope someone from ProductHunt also says something here.
What if we had a weighted point system that considered:
- Quality of comments/discussions
- Product launches
- Successful hunts
- Community help
I see they have a KittyPoint system which I think should be the main highlight of the profile and not the streak.
Could we implement a "streak pause" feature for verified emergencies?
What metrics would YOU consider more meaningful for measuring community contribution?
As someone who works with data, I believe we can create a more nuanced system that truly reflects and encourages valuable community participation.
What are your thoughts? I especially want to hear from long-time PH users and the Product Hunt team!
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Honestly - I agree - there should be a Streak Pause button (Streaks make me a bit anxious) - on any platform, but I have seen some people find it very motivating
@shabb_katoch Yes that is exactly what I want to learn, what is so motivating with streak.
@shabb_katoch @krazygaurav93 Streak does motivate to come back to the platform because I feel subconsciously or consciously we are attracted to the increasing numbers day by day, and when that is about to end, it makes us really anxious to keep it up, which is a good way to keep coming back to the application or product for that matter. Streak-freeze is a concept I do admire, which must be available, not generously but sparingly in any application.
There is finally someone who has spoken about it.
Maintaining a streak just for the sake of maintaining a number can be exhausting mentally.
One missed day, and all your efforts are gone!
I am not much of a data person, but of course the Kitty Points or how much one contributes should be something that needs to be considered.
Or maybe give us an option to freeze up streaks if we have maintained a few days streak or have made valuable contributions.
I agree too! Kitty points are slightly accurate in regards to the genuine contribution made by the user on the platform, but indeed the lost streak can be slightly demotivating at times to return back to it. It can definitely be improved!
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