Glossaries
Activation Rate
What is Activation Rate in Growth Hacking?
Activation Rate is a key metric in growth hacking that measures the percentage of new users who complete a desired action or set of actions that indicate they are deriving value from a product or service.
Synonyms: User Activation Rate, New User Engagement Rate, Product Adoption Rate, Onboarding Success Rate
Why Activation Rate is Important in Growth Hacking
Activation Rate is a crucial metric for growth hackers because it directly relates to user engagement and product adoption. A high activation rate indicates that new users are quickly finding value in your product, which is essential for long-term growth and retention. By focusing on improving activation rate, growth hackers can:
- Increase the likelihood of user retention
- Improve overall product adoption
- Reduce customer acquisition costs
- Enhance the efficiency of marketing efforts
How to Measure and Improve Activation Rate
To effectively use Activation Rate in your growth hacking strategy:
- Define your activation event(s): Determine what actions signify that a user has found value in your product.
- Track user behavior: Use analytics tools to monitor how many new users complete the activation event(s).
- Calculate your Activation Rate: Divide the number of users who completed the activation event by the total number of new users, then multiply by 100.
- Optimize the user onboarding process: Streamline the steps required for users to reach their "aha moment."
- Use A/B testing: Experiment with different onboarding flows, user interfaces, and messaging to improve activation.
Examples of Activation Events in Different Industries
- Social Media: Connecting with a certain number of friends or posting their first update
- E-commerce: Making their first purchase or adding items to a wishlist
- SaaS: Integrating the product with their existing tools or creating their first project
- Mobile Apps: Completing the app tutorial or using a core feature for the first time
Frequently Asked Questions
- What's a good Activation Rate?: A good Activation Rate varies by industry and product type, but generally, aim for 20-30% or higher.
- How is Activation Rate different from Conversion Rate?: Activation Rate focuses on new users taking specific actions that indicate product value, while Conversion Rate typically measures the percentage of visitors who complete a desired goal, such as making a purchase.
- Can Activation Rate change over time?: Yes, Activation Rate can fluctuate based on product updates, changes in user behavior, or shifts in your target audience.
- How often should I measure Activation Rate?: It's best to track Activation Rate regularly, typically weekly or monthly, to identify trends and the impact of your optimization efforts.
