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Trouble-shooting to Improve Community Metrics Building and growing an engaged community is fun and exciting! What isn't as fun is when it starts to plateau. Perhaps folks aren't sharing as much in the group, aren't attending live calls, and more. But that doesn't necessarily mean it's a bad thing. It's possible that you've built out the resources and support for them that they already have access to the questions they're asking. The Struggle to Identify What the Problem is... or if There Even is a Problem! The problem is: it can be hard to know what the scenario actually is for your community without the proper analytics... which is why I'm super excited about the new analytics now provided for Circle communities (that's the platform where I host my community membership). For example, it feels like there's been less participation in my community since I moved from Discord to Circle. However, there are a lot of different things that had been happening at the same time. Here are two examples: About six months before moving platforms, I was getting extremely overwhelmed by the setup and all of the things happening in the community within the Discord platform, which is part of why I was so anxious to move to Circle. So, it's possible that reorganizing the group on Circle in a way that felt more intuitive and easier to navigate makes it feel quieter, when really it's just less overwhelming. It also means that there are less questions from distraught members who can't find a replay, a call link, etc. since it's so much easier to find now. This (approximately) six month time period was also around the time things really started ramping up on a publication project that I was heading... meaning I had less time and energy to spend interacting in the group, and I was more desperately needing some automation in my community... things like Because incorporating more automation in my business decreased my workload for maintaining the community, it makes sense that the community now would feel calmer for me! Or, it's possible that the scheduled content now has created a gap between myself and my community members. That could be a good thing (they're less dependent on me and more able to solve problems on their own), or it could be a bad thing (they're feeling less connected to me and perhaps even somewhat abandoned even though I'm still very active in the community). So, these are the concerns that have been circling in my head for a couple of years now. Did I ruin the community? Even though the transfer saved my life, did it ruin my "baby" (the community that I'd built)? I've used surveys for my community to try to find answers, but honestly, they haven't helped a lot, because the responses seemingly contradict the trends that I see in the community. But now I have data from Circle's new Analytics Hub to help answer these questions for me! Here are three simple ways I've been loving and using the analytics. Using the Analytics to Ease Your Fear of a Dying Community and Improve Community Metrics What Monthly Active Members Tells Me as a Community Host When it feels like the community engagement is dead, I can't help but wonder: have the members completely forgotten about the community? Do they read any of the weekly email reminders with an overview of information? Have they even been on the platform? Why aren't they interacting - is it because they don't find the community helpful (survey responses say it's not this), already have the answers they need in the community, have forgotten the community exists, it's inconvenient to log into Circle, or don't like the Circle platform? As we sometimes tend to do, I'd found myself spiraling into negative thought patterns of assuming the worst: nobody liked the community, nobody liked me, the community and what I offered was no longer valuable, etc, etc, etc. Even though the data I did have should have already told me otherwise - there's a healthy retention rate in the group, and folks are consistently sharing, via surveys and through messages, that they find the community helpful. But it wasn't until I saw the data in the Analytics Hub on Circle.so that I really started to believe it. I finally could see that folks are regularly logging into the community. Even in the lowest engagement month, about 50% of members are active in the group. How Circle's Popular Day & Time Data Helps Me Schedule Calls Historically, I've relied on surveys to determine when would be the best time to host calls within the community. However, I often only get a few responses to the surveys (which apply to the call times for 6-12 months), and then live attendance is very minimal. Now, I'm so excited to be able to use the data to know when people really are using Circle. This way, not only do I know they're available and thinking about the community at this time, but if they are on the platform and see the event live, they are more likely to join, even if they forgot about the event! For reference, the last survey of community members indicated (from 3 members in total, and there was never a time when all three were available) they were most available Mondays 8 am to 5 pm, Tuesdays 8 am to 11 am, Wednesdays 8 am to 1 pm, and Thursdays 8 am to 5 pm. Between the continued morning sickness I've been experiencing in my pregnancy, and my Mondays already being mostly booked, this has mostly left me with Wednesday 12-1 pm and Thursday afternoons. I'd scheduled most of the calls for Thursdays 1-2 pm, with a few Thursdays 2-3 pm or 3-4 pm and Mondays 12-1 pm or 1-2 pm. Looking at the "Popular day & time" chart from Circle's Analytics Hub, I can see these definitely aren't the worst times to be scheduling calls, but they aren't necessarily the most ideal either. Based on this information, I would make Wednesday 10-11 am the #1 call time choice, followed by Thursdays at 12-1 pm and 4-5 pm. Although I've already scheduled out the calls through the summer, I am excited to use this data for scheduling autumn and winter calls, and to see if it makes a difference in call attendance! Plus - a really nice bonus is to not have to beg my community members to complete a survey to discover the optimal call time! Using Data and Analytics Hub to Keep Your Community Healthy In this post, I've primarily talked about using the data to identify if there's a problem, and if there is a problem, to identify what the core of that problem actually is (and potential answers to know how to solve it). However, we can use this data to facilitate a beautiful community experience and avoid those problems in the first place. For example, scheduling events during optimal times for members, optimizing content based on the device(s) community members are most using, and noticing trends in members and content and identifying ways to optimize the community in response. Here are a few more examples of data that can be found within Circle.so's Analytics Hub. But even if you aren't using Circle, be sure to look for similar data in the backend of your community platform! Not using Circle (yet) but want to check it out? Here's access to a 14-day free trial! *Note: this post includes an affiliate link for Circle. Should you choose to join, I may receive some compensation for the referral. I truly love using Circle for my community, and I only share it because I do love it!

As I was collecting information from my Instagram audience about their perspectives and opinions on test knitting and tech editing, I received several responses from test knitters for what they wanted to share with knit and crochet pattern designers who are running test knits. There were so many responses that I decided to create a blog post just with their feedback! #1: Test Knitters' Biggest Issue with Your Test Knit is the Deadline By far, the biggest complaint that test knitters have about test knits is that the test knitting deadlines are too short. They need to have plenty of time to order yarn, swatch, and knit the project; often while working around family and work duties. I followed up my survey with the timelines that I give my test knitters, and the majority of test knitters felt like these timelines were reasonable for test knitting. (So feel free to steal them!) 2 weeks for dishcloths 4 weeks for small accessories such as hats, mittens, headbands, and cowls 6 weeks for shawls* and socks *Two people shared that they'd like to have 8 weeks for test knitting fingering weight shawls that are large or have a lot of texture. At the time that I am writing this post, I haven't designed any sweaters, cardigans, pullovers, or vests. I know test knitters like to have more than 8 weeks for knitting sweaters, and it is extremely important to give plenty of time for test knitters to make the larger sizes in your pattern. One designer responded to my Instagram polls sharing that she gives 3 to 4 months for her sweater test knits. #2: Test Knitters' Second Complaint is that You Need to Communicate Better As they say, "communication is always key." (And actually, that's what one person responding to my survey said.) Specifically, test knitters are getting frustrated when test knits are lacking: a clear deadline -- and if you're using Instagram to host they test, they want to see the deadline in the chat title access to yardage and needle information prior to applying for the test knit a schematic of the design Good communication is key to any successful communication, and I figure it's better to over-communicate than to leave something unclear. Plus, this is what you want to receive from your test knitters so you aren't running into issues *after* they've finished test knitting because they made assumptions about directions that were unclear. #3: Test Knitters Want to See Clearer Expectations From You Ok, in my opinion this also falls under "communication," but there were enough specific comments about needing clear expectations that I decided it was important to make this point really clear. If there's something that you expect of your test knitters, you need to communicate with them. Do they need to complete the full project or just through a certain point? Do they need to share photos of their progress? Do they need to post finished object photos somewhere? Do they need to create a Ravelry project page linked to your pattern? Do they need to share photos on Instagram? Test knitters want to see all of the expectations clearly laid out in a list (Yarnpond actually gives you a section to share expectations!), including deadlines, required social media posts, hashtags to use, photo requirements, and more. They also want to see clear expectations throughout the test knitting process and after the pattern release. Include a progress calendar for when each stage should be completed by (helps set goals). #4: Test Knitters Want to Be Part of a Community If you've read my blog post, you know I recommend Yarnpond for new pattern designers that are feeling intimidated by the idea of hosting a test knit. And, if you use Yarnpond (or any platform that allows for group discussions, like Discord, Ravelry, or an Instagram group chat), that should take care of most of your issues around testers wanting to be a part of a community for the test knit. Based on the feedback in my survey, test knitters are wanting you to create "good community" via interactive group chat threads where test knitters don't feel alone and are welcome to share/discuss questions, concerns, and feedback. They also like to connect with each other and chat about their knitting, yarn, progress, and even a bit about everyday life. Note: If you're using email to host a test knit, it's suggested that you keep all of the details in one email thread. It'll also make it a lot easier for you to manage if your test knitters keep to that email thread as well! #5: Additional Comments from Test Knitters There were a few more comments that didn't fall into the four categories above, so I'll share those here: Test knitters want you to get your pattern tech edited prior to test knitting, because it can be frustrating for them to deal with errors in your pattern (and, remember, they're generally test knitting for free!). Not sure what the difference is between test knitting and tech editing? Read this post, "Knitting Tech Editor vs Test Knitters: Why Do I Need Both for My Knitting Patterns?" Test knitters are worried that designers are choosing test knitters based off "only aesthetically pleasing & purely knitting based" Instagram accounts. If that's you, they want you to stop that immediately. Test knitters want to remind you to share a copy of the finished pattern as a thank you for them test knitting the pattern. And I'll add to that: I recommend gifting at least one additional pattern to test knitters. They put a lot of effort into helping you! Want to learn more about test knitting? Get all of the details in my blog post, "A Knitting Pattern Designer's Guide to Test Knitting: What, Why, and How Pattern Testing Works."

Have you ever thought about how much stories connect us as human beings? I've been thinking about it a lot lately. We are each unique individuals, with different paths, different interests, different struggles, different goals. There is so much we don't know about other people and where they are, and often we think we don't share anything in common with many folks. But what I realized in college is that you'd be really surprised. Some of the folks that I felt the most distant from, I had the most in common with… when we sat down and talked about life. Our goals, ambitions, struggles, frustrations. And that's because, as humans, there is so much that we share emotionally. We often struggle with very similar feelings and concepts, even if we handle it differently. So why am I sharing this with you? It's because I think it's important to think about - and talk about - your story. Think about why you started knitting, why you started designing, and how you can connect with your audience. Talk about what you love about your patterns, the design process, and why knitters will love working with your patterns. Start to answer questions like: When will I want to knit this pattern? Why will I enjoy working on this pattern? How will this pattern fit into my life after I've finished knitting the pattern? Picture the situations and the scenarios, and share those stories. When folks in your audience realize you understand them, they will feel a greater connection with you. They'll like you and trust your work more, and will be more likely to purchase in the future. Don't be afraid to tell your story!

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Hello Lovely, I'm so excited to help you! Clarity, confidence, alignment, and authenticity are just around the corner. Not only in your business, but also your life 🫶🏽 Membership Are you looking for an all-in-one resource hub, learning center, and supportive community? ​ If that's a resounding "YES!" I hear, Pattern Design Circle is for you! ​ Inside, you receive coaching from me, course content, networking opportunities, a supportive community, and more. ​ We cover marketing, business, mindset, designing, productivity, authenticity, and whole-life balance. ​ It's my all-in-one offer to support you in the most complete way possible... ​ And I can't wait to watch you uplevel with all of these resources in your pocket! Join the Community Coaching Do any of these sound like you? You're just getting into designing and you're not sure where to start ​ You've hit a bump and don't know how to propel your business and marketing forward ​ You know something is misaligned but you can't seem to find the path among the weeds ​ Whatever the flavor of your problem, I'm your girl. ​ We will work together to get you back to clarity, confidence, and authenticity in all areas: designing, business, marketing, and life. Work with Me 52 Weeks of Creativity Looking for a creative push? Whether you're in a creative rut, looking for a challenge, or needing a change in scenery, 52 Weeks of Creativity is here to ignite your creativity... for an entire year! ​ One year from now, you'll have 52 new design ideas. Check It Out Introduction to Designing Class Whether you've started dabbling in designing or you're still trying to sort out if you even want to go there, this class is for you. Inside, you'll learn all the steps that go into designing, how to establish a design process that works well for you, and beyond. Let's Get Started! The Complete Marketing Course for Designers Struggling to market your designs (and yourself) in a way that feels authentic, sustainable, and enjoyable? From the fundamentals of marketing through strategies, platforms, and tutorials, this course teaches just about everything you’ll ever need to know about marketing your business! ​ Ideal customers, branding, and authentic marketing? Check! ​ Emails, freebies, social media, blogging, SEO, and beyond? Check! ​ Allll the platform selling channels? Check! ​ Trust me, I've got you covered ☺️ Sign Up Here

WELCOME As a passionate and empathetic guide, I empower knit and crochet pattern designers to craft their aligned and meaningful journey while upleveling their business . LEARN MORE Free Business Guide Struggling to get started? Six Essential Business Building Steps : break down creating your knit or crochet pattern design business into six manageable steps. ​ Interactive Prompts : each step is accompanied by practical prompts to help you apply what you learn, making the process hands-on and actionable. ​ Progress Tracker Checklist : stay organized and monitor your advancement with the simple checklist, ensuring you never miss a beat. ​ Proven Success Tips : Benefit from the insider tips for long-term results. ​ Download the guide now to build your pattern design business with confidence. Send Me the PDF! ABOUT ME As a fellow knitting pattern designer, I offer unwavering support, inspiration, resources, and guidance for designers seeking authentic growth and connections in their business journey. Together, we redefine success on your terms, freeing you from external expectations and embracing what truly matters to you. I help you uncover your inner desires and create the beautiful life perfect for you. Learn More DIY with Resources Uplevel with Community Receive Customized Support What Folks are Saying "Jessica is just wonderful. I need her proactive and supportive approach in my life! She is an excellent person to have in your corner. One of my favorite things about our check-ins is her thoughtful questions. She is always extending an invitation to take a closer look at things if I am glossing by too quickly or to take a step back if I am too in the weeds. I also appreciate her sharing her own ups and downs in our group, I learn as much from lessons others learn as from their successes. If you want feedback or just a listening ear, you can’t find a better knit designer to turn to!" Nicole Smith, Knitting Teacher & Designer Pattern Design Circle Podcast All-Time Favorite Episodes Five Pillars to Building a Successful Pattern Design Business Marketing 101: Methods, Strategies, and Why It Matters Stop Buying All the Things! That Course Isn't the Solution. Here's What You Need Instead. Moving the Needle in Your Pattern Design Business - with Shelley Brander of Knit Stars on Apple on Spotify on YouTube On the Blog... How to Decrease Tech Editing Costs: Your Knitting Pattern Editing Checklist A Knitting Pattern Designer's Guide to Generating New Design Ideas 5 Things Your Test Knitters Want to Tell You as the Knitting Pattern Designer Using Story to Connect with Your Audience as a Knitting Pattern Designer