Things I ALWAYS Do Before Launching New Apps (4 Apps, 100% Profitable)

TL;DR

Before launching, Chris runs a 6-step checklist to ensure retention data, user feedback, and first impressions are all in place.

Key Points

• 1.Waitlist page first (before building): Use Framer + FormSpark to collect emails, gauge interest, and build a ready beta-tester pool before writing a single line of code.
• 2.Analytics + feedback board from day one: Install PostHog for churn tracking and Canny (or free alternative UserJot) for feature upvoting — Chris credits a feedback board request for building Ellie's most-used list feature.
• 3.Email sequence system via Loops: Set up automated drip emails immediately — Chris sends 5 emails over 14 days highlighting lesser-known features, which directly reduced churn in his app Ellie.
• 4.App Store listing deserves 3–4 days minimum: Apple gives new apps a temporary search boost at launch; bad screenshots waste it permanently — treat screenshots as the single highest-ROI pre-launch task.
• 5.Launch timing is gut-feel based on beta retention: If beta users drop off after one day, don't launch; if they stick around for several days, that's the green light — no specific number, just pattern confidence.