Building Software that Matters: How to Focus on Impact Over Features

When it comes to creating software that truly matters, the question to ask isn’t, “What more can I add?” but “What’s the impact I want this to have?” In my experience, software that makes a difference isn’t about complexity or countless features, it’s about solving real problems, simply and effectively.

1. Start with a Clear Purpose

Every impactful project starts with a focused purpose. Take ThrottleBot Verification as an example. When I first began building it, I envisioned a straightforward tool for verifying vehicle authenticity on Discord. My goal wasn’t to pile on features, but to make the verification process quick and reliable for automotive enthusiasts. Instead of distractions, the bot has a single, user-focused purpose that’s made it a trusted tool for over 200,000 users.

2. Solve Real Problems, Not Just Technical Ones

It’s easy to get drawn into technical challenges, but impactful software solves genuine, real-world problems. Instead of building something because it’s technically impressive, I focus on what users actually need. Imagine building a budgeting tool. It might be tempting to include complex tracking features, but the real impact could come from just a few well-chosen tools that help users manage spending easily.

3. Amplify the Essentials, Cut the Noise

Adding features often dilutes a product’s purpose. The success of ThrottleBot lies in its simplicity. By honing in on the essentials, fast and secure verification, I kept the experience focused and effective. It’s better to do one thing well than spread your efforts across features that don’t serve the core mission.

4. Embrace Feedback and Adapt

Impactful software thrives on feedback. Every piece of user feedback on ThrottleBot has helped me refine the experience. When users mentioned needing a clearer verification flow, I made adjustments that kept the tool aligned with their needs. Small, meaningful changes often matter more than flashy new features.

5. Show Your Work in a Way that Resonates

Lastly, building software that matters is also about how it’s presented. Great software doesn’t always get noticed if its value isn’t clear. For ThrottleBot, I focused on connecting with users in the communities where they already were, making its purpose obvious and accessible.