Your Kickstarter or Indiegogo campaign hit its funding goal and was a wild success, but it looks like you are going to suffer a delay in delivering your product. This puts you in a spot of having to explain to your backers on Kickstarter or Indiegogo what steps you plan to take next. While no project creator wants their delivery to be delayed, backers tend to be very understanding of delays when they are handled well. So, what should a crowdfunding campaign creator do when they can’t hit their delivery deadline?
When Crowdfunding Project Delays Occur
One of the most important things you can do for those who have opted to help fund your project is to make sure you keep them updated on your progress. This is even more important if something has gone wrong; remember, lack of communication can result in a loss of credibility – the sooner you let backers know there is a problem, the better for everyone involved. Here are some steps you can take:
- Send out a project update – Begin by sending a project update to your Kickstarter or Indiegogo backers to let them know the status of your project. While it may be embarrassing to tell your backers that you have suffered a setback, the potential loss of credibility could be more devastating. As soon as you learn of a problem, let your backers know.
- Transparency matters – Honesty is the best way to deal with delays, mistakes, or changes in your plans. Make sure you provide the reason for delays without sugarcoating them. Remember, the more open and honest you are about your challenges, the more likely your backers are to continue to support you.
- Be available to backers – Chances are, if you are suffering a delay, or there are other issues that require your attention, backers will have questions. Make sure you address each question they ask to the best of your ability. Communication is always important, but it becomes even more important if your project is not progressing as expected.
Addressing Backers Regularly
It is important to keep in mind that the nature of Kickstarter and Indiegogo projects typically means your backers only know what you tell them. Once your project ends, you should continue to provide valuable information and updates to your backers. Be proactive; if you are using funds to pay attorney fees, create prototypes or for other pre-production functions, make sure to update your backers regularly. Let them know what is happening and keep them aware of new developments or any changes you are making. Ultimately, the key to a crowdfunding projects success is clear and consistent communication.
Whether you are launching a new campaign, or you have run other campaigns successfully, you can find out more information about running a crowdfunding project by subscribing to the Art of the Kickstart newsletter or listening to our podcast.
