MK

martinkrizan.com / aarrr / changelog-nudges

AARRRRetention

Changelog / product update nudges

Actively surfacing new features and improvements instead of leaving them buried in a changelog page.

In-app announcements, email or a digest that tell users about new functionality, aimed at re-engaging users who have gone quiet.

Why this ring

A cheap, easy-to-test lever for re-engagement.

SaaS fit

Works everywhere; the effect is somewhat stronger for products that ship frequently.

How to apply it

When to apply: You ship regularly (at least monthly) and have a delivery channel (in-app, email).

First steps: Pick one primary channel and only nudge users about features relevant to their segment — not every change to everyone.

Pitfalls: Announcing every minor fix as "news" trains people to ignore the channel — save it for changes that actually change how someone uses the product.

Metrics to watch: Click-through on the nudge, share of inactive users who return to the product after it.

Resources

Who does it well

  • LinearIts public changelog is frequently cited as a model for concise, well-designed release notes.
  • IntercomUses in-app "What's New" posts as a core re-engagement surface, not just an email digest.