How Web3Forms Reached 3,000 Users With a Simple Contact Form Solution
Who is Surjith S M?
Surjith S M, the founder of Web3Forms, is a freelance web designer and Jamstack developer from Kerala, India, with a background in business administration and computer applications from Sikkim Manipal University.
What problem does Web3Forms solve?
Web3Forms solves the hassle of managing contact forms on static websites by offering a hassle-free, serverless solution that requires no backend knowledge, making it a painless choice for developers.
Web3Forms Homepage
How did Surjith come up with the idea for Web3Forms?
Web3Forms was conceived out of a clear need Surjith identified in his web development work. He frequently encountered issues with setting up contact forms while using PHP for client websites. The pain points like spam issues and inconsistent deliverability drove him to seek out simpler alternatives. After being dissatisfied with existing solutions, Surjith saw an opportunity to create a more straightforward and efficient option.
Surjith's approach was practical—he leveraged his existing knowledge and skills to build what he needed. As a web designer and developer, he was well-equipped to understand the technical challenges and user needs. He aimed for a product that would not just serve him, but resonate with other developers facing similar issues.
He opted for an API-based contact form solution that operated without requiring server-side code, simplifying the process for static websites. Surjith tested the concept as a potential user himself, ensuring it was user-friendly and eliminated common frustrations associated with similar products. This hands-on validation and continuous feedback helped refine the solution into what Web3Forms is today.
How did Surjith build the initial version of Web3Forms?
Web3Forms was built as a serverless contact form API catering to static websites, using a technology stack powered by AWS Cloud. The development of the backend was completed using AWS, which, despite being powerful, presented challenges due to its steep learning curve for Surjith, a front-end developer who frequently turned to Google for AWS-related tasks. The initial prototype emerged from the necessity to replace problematic PHP solutions known for spam and deliverability issues. Surjith aimed to differentiate his product by eliminating the need for signups and logins, allowing users to directly create access keys for custom forms, making the process straightforward and user-friendly. Building this serverless solution proved demanding, especially as Surjith had to incorporate complex backend logic, necessitating external assistance. The beta version launched in 2019, following a period of iteration and complex problem solving to ensure a seamless and reliable user experience.
What was the growth strategy for Web3Forms and how did they scale?
SEO
Web3Forms primarily focused on search engine optimization (SEO) to drive growth. The founder emphasized creating content that would attract search engines, aiming to play a long-term game by adding articles and free resources like contact form templates. This strategic approach allowed them to target relevant keywords, making it easier for potential users searching for solutions to find and adopt Web3Forms.
Why it worked: By building content around relevant keywords, Web3Forms was able to position itself prominently in search engine results, making it easier for target audiences to discover and evaluate the product. This organic visibility was crucial for attracting users who were specifically looking for a contact form solution for static websites.
Twitter was another platform that Web3Forms leveraged for initial traction. The product was launched on Twitter, shared, and discussed in relevant tech and web development communities. This outreach included sharing stats and updates, which helped generate awareness and engage with early adopters.
Why it worked: Web3Forms managed to engage with a community of developers and technical users on Twitter, who are typically interested in simple, efficient solutions like theirs. The platform allowed for direct communication with potential customers and early feedback, while public shares helped in gaining more visibility.
Product-Based Growth
In addition to SEO and Twitter, Web3Forms also focused on product-based growth by cultivating and improving the product itself to continually attract and retain users. This method was supported by offering a generous free tier, making it attractive for developers looking for cost-efficient solutions.
Why it worked: By concentrating on refining the product and offering an appealing free plan, Web3Forms succeeded in attracting users who could initially try the service at no cost. This lowered the barrier to entry for new users and expanded the user base, eventually converting some into paying customers through upgrades for more features.
What's the pricing strategy for Web3Forms?
Web3Forms offers a generous free tier and three paid plans starting at $8/month, with options like the Starter plan at $49 one-time on Appsumo.
Pricing
What were the biggest lessons learned from building Web3Forms?
- Tackle Challenges with Simplicity: Web3Forms overcame complex form challenges by creating a serverless, no-login-needed solution, setting it apart in a competitive market.
- Embrace Slow Growth: The journey with Web3Forms shows that playing the long game is essential. Growth might be slow initially, but persistence pays off.
- Value Feedback & Iteration: Early customer feedback from limited-time deals on platforms like Appsumo helped refine the product and boost traction.
- Leverage SEO & Organic Channels: Focus on SEO from the start proved advantageous for Web3Forms, driving organic user growth without heavy marketing spend.
- Balance Product Development & Customer Interaction: Constant communication with users through simple channels like email and Telegram ensures alignment with customer needs.
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More about Web3Forms:
Who is the owner of Web3Forms?
Surjith S M is the founder of Web3Forms.
When did Surjith S M start Web3Forms?
2019
What is Surjith S M's net worth?
Surjith S M's business makes an average of $/month.
How much money has Surjith S M made from Web3Forms?
Surjith S M started the business in 2019, and currently makes an average of .
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Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
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