A thesis data tool took eight months to build but gained no users
A custom was built to replace paper booklets used for recording thesis data. It removes the need to write values on paper and then enter the same information again in Excel. Users can search their records, add or change fields, view progress immediately, and export to Excel.
Each user receives a separate database that only they can access. The product took about eight months to refine, and its creator has used it personally for a year. Giving it free to several colleagues, promoting it in college groups, and improving the website's search ranking did not bring in users.
In-person surveys showed strong interest before development, but the people surveyed have since completed their thesis work.
Key points
- The tool replaces paper records and repeated Excel entry.
- It supports search, editable fields, live progress, and Excel exports.
- Each user's data is kept in a separate database with private access.
- Eight months of development and several promotion attempts produced no user growth.
- Early survey interest was not confirmed through actual use or payment.