Beta
Also called Beta Launch and Public Beta
A release to a limited set of real users to test the product under real conditions before a full launch. A public beta opens it to anyone who wants in.
Why it matters
A beta buys real-world feedback and a chance to fix issues while expectations are lower. Used well it de-risks a launch; used as an excuse for a permanently unfinished product, it wears out goodwill.
For example
A startup opens a public beta to 2,000 waitlist signups, fixing the issues they surface before the full launch.
Go deeper
Related terms
Also in Starting Up
See how founders actually handle this on Building the product, part of the Starting Up hub.
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