The Problem
Users often don’t know about features that could help them:- Hidden in menus they never explore
- Released after they signed up
- Seem advanced or intimidating
- Not obviously relevant to their use case
The Solution
Use behavioral signals to proactively introduce relevant features at the right moment.Implementation
Step 1: Define Feature Events
Create events for features you want to promote: Event:feature_discovery_bulk_import
feature_discovery_keyboard_shortcuts
Step 2: Detect Behavioral Signals
Step 3: Context-Aware Suggestions
Trigger Timing
| Signal | Feature | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| 10 manual entries | Bulk Import | Immediately after 10th |
| 20+ searches | Saved Filters | On next search |
| 50+ actions/hour | Keyboard Shortcuts | After 5 min of activity |
| 3 exports | API Access | On 3rd export |
| High plan usage | Pro Features | When > 80% usage |
Best Practices
Don't interrupt critical flows
Don't interrupt critical flows
Never interrupt:
- Active editing
- Payment flows
- Export processes
Respect dismissals
Respect dismissals
If a user dismisses a feature suggestion:
- Don’t show it again for at least 7 days
- Consider it “discovered” even if declined
Personalize the pitch
Personalize the pitch
Instead of: “Check out bulk import!”
Try: “You’ve added 10 items manually. Bulk import could save you time!”
Limit frequency
Limit frequency
- Max 1 feature suggestion per session
- Max 3 per week
- Never more than 1 banner at a time
Measuring Success
| Metric | Description |
|---|---|
| Feature Adoption | % of users who try suggested feature |
| Time to Discovery | Days from signup to feature use |
| Engagement Rate | % of suggestions clicked |
| Feature Retention | Users still using feature after 30 days |