1. Research and Discover
The first step in your Indiegogo shopping journey is to research and discover the campaigns that align with your interests. Take the time to explore different categories and browse through the projects that catch your attention. Indiegogo offers a user-friendly search feature, allowing you to filter campaigns based on various criteria such as popularity, end date, and funding goals.
2. Assess the Campaign
Once you’ve identified a campaign that intrigues you, it’s crucial to assess its viability and credibility. Start by thoroughly reading the campaign description, looking for clear explanations of the product, its features, and the team behind it. Check if the campaign includes images, videos, and prototypes to showcase the product’s development stage.
Next, examine the campaign’s funding goal and funding progress. Assess how realistic the funding goal is and whether the campaign has shown steady progress towards reaching it. This information will give you an idea of the campaign’s feasibility and the likelihood of you receiving the product if it reaches its funding goal.
3. Read Backer Comments and Reviews
A valuable aspect of shopping on Indiegogo is the ability to read backer comments and reviews. These insights can provide you with valuable information about the campaign’s progress, the communication and responsiveness of the project creators, and the overall satisfaction of previous backers. Take the time to thoroughly read through these comments to gauge the campaign’s credibility and reliability.
4. Understand the Funding Model and Pledge Levels
Before making a commitment, it’s crucial to understand the funding model and pledge levels of the campaign. Indiegogo offers various funding models, including flexible funding (where creators receive funds regardless of meeting the funding goal) and fixed funding (where creators only receive funds if the funding goal is reached). Make sure you understand the campaign’s specific funding model to avoid any surprises.
Additionally, familiarize yourself with the available pledge levels and the corresponding rewards. Some campaigns offer early-bird discounts or exclusive perks for early backers. Assess which pledge level aligns with your budget and desired rewards to make an informed decision.
5. Engage with the Campaign Creators
Engaging with the campaign creators can provide you with valuable insights and reassurances. Check if the campaign creators have provided contact information or if they actively respond to backer comments and inquiries. Feel free to reach out to the creators with any questions or concerns you may have. Their responsiveness and willingness to communicate can be indicative of their commitment and professionalism.
6. Manage Your Expectations
When shopping on Indiegogo, it’s important to manage your expectations and understand the inherent risks associated with crowdfunding. While many campaigns succeed and deliver high-quality products, there is always a chance of delays, changes in product specifications, or even project failure. Keep in mind that as a backer, you are supporting the creators’ vision and taking part in the product’s development process.
7. Stay Informed and Track the Campaign
Once you’ve committed to a campaign, it’s essential to stay informed about its progress and updates. Indiegogo provides tools to track the campaigns you’ve backed, including notifications for new updates. Take advantage of these features to ensure you are aware of any developments or changes throughout the project’s journey.
By following these tips, you can master the art of shopping on Indiegogo, making informed decisions and acquiring unique products. Remember to research, assess, engage, and manage your expectations to ensure a successful acquisition experience.
Happy shopping on Indiegogo!