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Metrics & Analytics

Feature Adoption

The percentage of users who actively use a specific feature after it becomes available to them.

Definition

Feature adoption measures how many users actually use a given feature after they have access to it. It is typically calculated as the percentage of eligible users who use a feature at least once, or who use it regularly. High adoption indicates a feature delivers value. Low adoption suggests the feature is undiscoverable, poorly designed, or solving the wrong problem.

Why It Matters

Features that are not adopted do not contribute to retention or differentiation. You might have built exactly what users need, but if they do not know about it or cannot figure it out, it does not matter. Feature adoption emails drive awareness and usage, turning features from cost centers into value drivers.

How It Works

Track which users have used each feature. Calculate adoption rate as users who have used the feature divided by users who have access to it. Segment by user type, plan, and tenure. For new features, measure adoption curve over time after launch. Use email to introduce features and guide users to try them.

Best Practices

  • 1Define clear adoption criteria for each feature (one use vs regular use)
  • 2Track adoption by user segment to find where features resonate
  • 3Use email to announce new features to relevant users
  • 4Send follow-up emails if users do not try the feature after announcement
  • 5Include usage tips and success stories in adoption emails
  • 6Measure feature adoption impact on retention and expansion
  • 7Sunset or fix features with persistently low adoption

Segmented Feature Announcements

Build email campaigns that announce features to relevant user segments. Track adoption rates and send follow-ups to users who have not tried new features.

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Frequently Asked Questions

It varies wildly by feature type. Core features should see 60-90% adoption. Nice-to-have features might be 10-30%. Power user features might only hit 5%. The key is whether adoption matches your expectations and investment in the feature.

Feature announcement emails drive awareness. Follow-up emails with tips and use cases drive trial. Success stories from other users build confidence. Segmented emails ensure the right users hear about the right features. Email is often the primary driver of feature discovery.

No. Segment your announcements. A developer-focused feature does not need to go to non-technical users. A premium feature should only go to premium plan customers. Relevant, targeted feature emails outperform blasts to everyone.