[User8712]

I spent a year or two building out the app, growing the user base, and adding new features. After that, my focus redirected to improving server performance with the growing traffic, handling support for users, refactoring code, managing advertising campaigns, A/B testing affiliate offers, and trying to develop a long term plan to stay relevant.

In short, my time went from building an app, to building a business.

[ajm_5338]

How large of a team?

[User8712]

One. I have enough work for 4 or 5 people, but I prefer to keep going solo. It slows growth a bit, but I don't have the headaches of managing employees, and it allows for more freedom in my daily schedule.

[ajm_5338]

Ever bring in anyone in a consultant type role? i.e. just to advise on a certain aspect (UX, UI) or to help with increases in workflow.

[User8712]

Nope, I'm fairly confident in my ability to direct the site in the right direction, and to handle the development side of things.

1. I do have volunteers that assist with support. The app brings in roughly 50,000 support tickets a year, so their help is important.

2. I try to automate everything. Anything that goes to support needs to be handled with the click of a button. Otherwise the smallest task becomes overwhelming when you multiply it by countless users. If I can't automate the task, I try to find a way for the community to get involved in helping.

3. All important changes are reviewed by the community. I consult with the users regarding any design or interface changes. However, users are against the idea of change, and they don't typically know what's best for them. My job is to sort through their feedback, and to make the final decision.

[ajm_5338]

All great info. Thank you.