What to Film When Your SaaS Is Still Ugly

What to Film When Your SaaS Is Still Ugly

As a SaaS founder, it’s easy to feel pressured to present a polished, professional product from day one. But the reality is that most software products are rough around the edges when they first launch. In this post, I’ll share practical tips on what to film during this early stage of your SaaS journey—especially when it's not visually appealing yet.

Embrace the Build in Public Mindset

Filming the development process is a powerful way to engage your audience. Here are some reasons why:

• Authenticity: Showing the real struggles and triumphs of building your product creates a genuine connection with your audience.
• Feedback Loop: Sharing your progress invites constructive feedback from potential users, which can help shape your product.
• Community Building: By documenting your journey, you’re more likely to attract like-minded individuals who can support and advise you.

Types of Content to Create

1. Development Updates

• Show snippets of your code or the development environment.
• Share what features you’re currently working on and why.
• Discuss any challenges you’re facing and how you plan to overcome them.

2. User Experience Testing

• Film sessions where you test the user interface with actual users.
• Highlight their feedback, focusing on both positive and negative experiences.
• Use this footage to illustrate how user testing informs your design decisions.

3. Behind-the-Scenes Looks

• Share your workspace setup and creative process.
• Discuss the tools and software you’re using, emphasizing their pros and cons.
• Introduce team members (if applicable) to personalize your brand.

4. Problem-Solving Sessions

• Record yourself brainstorming solutions to common problems your users face.
• Explain your thought process and decision-making criteria.
• This shows that you’re actively listening and adapting based on user needs.

Tips for Filming

• Use Simple Tools: You don’t need fancy equipment. A smartphone camera and basic editing software can suffice.
• Be Honest: Don’t shy away from sharing failures or setbacks. This transparency builds trust.
• Keep it Short: Aim for 5-10 minute videos that are easy to digest.
• Focus on Storytelling: Structure your content with a beginning, middle, and end to keep viewers engaged.

Building Your Audience

After producing your videos, it’s essential to share them effectively:

• Social Media: Use platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn to share snippets or highlights of your videos.
• YouTube Channel: Create a dedicated channel for your SaaS journey. Optimize your content with keywords like SaaS YouTube and build in public video to attract more viewers.
• Engage: Respond to comments and feedback on your videos, fostering a community around your journey.

Short Checklist for Filming

• [ ] Plan your filming schedule.
• [ ] Choose relevant topics based on your development progress.
• [ ] Keep your videos authentic and relatable.
• [ ] Share your videos across multiple platforms.
• [ ] Engage with your audience to build a community.

Conclusion

Filming your SaaS journey, even when your product isn’t perfect, is a valuable strategy for connecting with potential users and building a supportive community. By embracing the process, you can turn your early-stage experiments into meaningful content that resonates with your audience. For more insights on building in public, check out the LookManLook blog for additional tips and resources. Remember, it’s okay if your SaaS is still ugly—what matters is the journey you’re on and the value you’re creating.