How to Deal With Delays When Manufacturing a Crowdfunding Project


Crowdfunding, Product Development

Picture this – you’ve achieved your funding goal on Kickstarter or Indiegogo and you’ve started production, but now you find that there is going to be an unavoidable delay in shipping your product to your backers. You don’t want to let your backers down, so what should you do?

In general, backers tend to be understanding of delays when they are handled well. The most important thing to do if you run into a delay is to let your backers know. The more transparent you are about what is going on, the more credible you will be in the minds of your backers. Below, we’ll outline tips successful crowdfunding project creators can use, should they experience production and manufacturing delays.

Handling Crowdfunding Project Delays

The best thing you can do is let your backers know as soon as you run into a speedbump. Send out an update to your backers to let them know what is going on, and what is causing the delay. Apologize for the setback and communicate your plan for moving forward. Letting them know that you have a plan reassures them that they backed the right campaign. Here are some additional steps you can take in your project delay updates:

  • Share photos and videos of the progress. If possible, share photos or videos of the product or the process to add even more credibility to your messages. Regardless of the message you send to your backers, make sure it is timely and honest.
  • Maintain transparency. Post regular updates to let them know that your project is still moving forward, despite setbacks and delays. Communicate bad news, but also good news! Backers want to be involved and be a part of whatever comes next.
  • Keep updates consistent and timely. Make sure your messaging is often and consistent to avoid further upsetting or confusing your backers. The best way to do this is to set up a plan to get messages and updates to backers on a regular basis.
  • Offer a line of communication. It is also important that you be available to backers. If you are experiencing a delay, many backers will likely have questions. Being available to answer those questions will strengthen their trust in your ability to deliver your project.

Keep in mind that when a Kickstarter or Indiegogo project hits a snag, it can become public, quicky. Stalling for time, or withholding information from your backers, will only hurt your product and brand image.

It is up to you to communicate with your backers and explain to them what is going on. Your backers may be disappointed, but if you communicate with them using the tactics above, this will reassure them that they made the right choice.

If you’re looking for help with post-crowdfunding marketing and fulfillment services, we’re the experts! Get in touch with us today to find out how we can help you reach your business goals.

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