I have been using Reddit.com’s subreddits to get feedback about my ideas. I tried to go through Google Adsense to set up a campaign, but realized I dont like the way they promise a ‘segment’. I also looked at Facebook, but I am afraid I misunderstand my potential constituents.
On Reddit, people collect in topic oriented sub-groups. The sub-groups are a collection of people who share links about a single topic. As a result of this, you can safely assume the preferences of the group. These are called subreddits.
The subreddits are great for experimenting with ideas. The total number of subreddit followers is public knowledge. At any one moment, the subreddits also show how many people are logged in. As a result, you can easily gain insight on how many people your links are reaching.
I have been experimenting with asking the graffiti oriented subreddits about my idea. Initially, I was targeting the /r/graffiti subreddit because it was the biggest. I have tried to use surveys to collect feedback and email addresses, but never got more than 10 responses.
Today, I decided to target the /r/streetart subreddit. I used the format of post title as a question and post description with instructions. The instructions say “upvote” if you agree with the question. This format is giving me a healthy balance of up and down votes.
/r/streetart is a significantly smaller group, but I am getting much more user feedback. /r/graffiti is approximately 55,000 subscribers and /r/streetart is about 17,000. I believe this is because I am competing less for visible real estate. I also believe this may be because people who like /r/streetart may be more receptive to my question.