Ask for a commitment to drive long term engagement
Overview
Business Outcome
User Engagement
Monitoring the level of user engagement with the commitment feature, such as the number of users participating in setting daily commitments and the frequency of commitment updates. Higher levels of user engagement indicate active involvement with the app and its features.
Retention Rate
Tracking the retention rate of users who engage with the commitment feature compared to those who do not. Users who regularly commit to daily goals may be more likely to continue using the app over time, leading to higher retention rates.
Behavioral Outcome
Behavioral Change
Evaluating the impact of the commitment feature on users' behavior change outcomes, such as improvements in health habits, productivity, or overall well-being. Tracking changes in user behavior over time can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the commitment device in driving positive outcomes.
Goal Achievement
Assessing the percentage of users who successfully achieve their committed goals for the day. Monitoring goal achievement rates can provide insight into the effectiveness of the commitment device in motivating users to take action and make progress toward their objectives.
The Behavioral Science
Commitment and Consistency Principle
The psychological tactic being used in this scenario is known as the "Commitment and Consistency" principle. This principle is based on the idea that once individuals make a public or written commitment to a goal or behavior, they are more likely to follow through with it to maintain consistency between their actions and their self-image.
How It Works
The science behind this principle stems from cognitive dissonance theory, which suggests that individuals experience discomfort or tension when their actions are inconsistent with their beliefs or attitudes.
By committing, individuals align their actions with their self-image as someone who follows through on their promises or intentions, reducing cognitive dissonance. In the context of Fabulous asking users what they will commit to for tomorrow, the app is leveraging the Commitment and Consistency principle to encourage users to set goals or intentions for the following day.
By stating their commitment within the app, users are more likely to feel compelled to follow through with their stated intentions to maintain consistency with their self-image as someone committed to personal growth or self-improvement.
How It Might Backfire
Reinforcement of Negative Habits
In some cases, the commitment device may inadvertently reinforce negative habits or behaviors if users consistently set goals that are not aligned with their values or well-being. This can perpetuate unhealthy patterns and hinder users' progress toward positive change.
Overwhelm and Burnout
If users feel pressured to commit to too many goals or tasks, it may lead to feelings of overwhelm and burnout. Users may become discouraged if they consistently fail to meet their commitments, leading to disengagement or abandonment of the app.
How To Test
A/B Tests
In condition A, the users are asked if they plan on committing to do the desired behavior tommorrow, and in condition B, this feature is absent. Compare the two for retention and engagement metrics.
Frequently Asked Questions
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