Ahrefs Release Notes Review
Their approach to release notes goes beyond announcing new features and instead focuses on teaching users how to derive value from their toolset. The art of the Jobs-to-be-Done approach.
Update Style: Educational
Changelog Channels: Blog, YouTube, X / Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin.
Ahrefs, a leading Search Engine Optimization tool, offers a masterclass in crafting educational product updates. Their approach to release notes goes beyond announcing new features and instead focuses on teaching users how to derive value from their toolset. Learn more about the art of the Jobs-to-be-Done approach with release notes.
Educate Users On Achieving Results.
Ahrefs showcases how users can leverage their tool to drive more search traffic. Each update provides straightforward, actionable guidance on using specific features to unlock untapped potential. This approach helps users understand the tool's practical application, making the updates more valuable and engaging.
For example, they released a new backlink filter option and immediately explained its use case with some eCommerce SEO tasks on promoting wireless earphones in their video review.
A screenshot for the January 2024 video recap.Emphasize Use Cases Over Features.
Rather than solely focusing on new features, Ahrefs frequently emphasizes new use cases and strategies, even those involving existing functionality. They offer further educational resources for featured updates, allowing you to gain a comprehensive understanding quickly.
Useful links from a YouTube video description in a February update.Invest In Multimedia Content.
Ahrefs enhances its release notes with videos, screenshots, and comprehensive explanations, making the content more engaging and digestible. The January 2024 update included four significant features and a list of minor improvements, all introduced with a 4-minute video recap.
The January update begins with screenshots and GIFs explaining new product use cases.They also have a dedicated YouTube channel for product updates.
Reliable Delivery.
Ahrefs maintains a consistent update schedule, with weekly use case updates and monthly recaps. They provide enough space at the start screen of every account with an explainable picture and a short recap of the main ideas.
Half of the start screen was allocated to a feature from the previous update.That example with “Mobile usability issues” is part of a big March 2024 update. Ahrefs does not just announce an update. They repeatedly highlight its parts for a month to increase the chances of educating users on new valuable tools.
Areas For Improvement:
In our opinion, what could make Ahrefs’ release notes much better.
Enhance User Feedback And Engagement.
While Ahrefs has a feedback board, it's not easily accessible within the product. Incorporating user comments, reactions, or forums directly into the release notes could foster community and provide valuable insights for future updates.
Implement Personalization And Segmentation.
Ahrefs' updates are not personalized or segmented based on user preferences or needs. If Ahrefs allowed users to customize their update feed or segment updates based on roles or interests, they could deliver even more targeted and relevant content. Additionally, tagging their updates could improve navigation through their vast amount of helpful content.
Improve Navigation And Archive Management.
As Ahref’s release notes archive grows, finding specific updates or tracking changes to particular components becomes increasingly challenging. A more intuitive navigation system, such as categorization or tagging, could help users quickly locate the necessary information.
Conclusion:
The release notes from Ahrefs offer a significant lesson in prioritizing user education and providing actionable insights. They set a high standard for communicating product updates by focusing on use cases, catering to various user segments, and investing in multimedia content. Ahref’s dedication to empowering users through educational content is a significant strength.