zlacker

I think a lot of this is exactly the kind of constructive critique the OP is looking for, and I upvoted your comment for being high-value.

But I’m currently working on being a little more diplomatic, and too often I regret throwing in low-signal “this is a tech demo” type summaries next to my substantial remarks.

I hope this comes off as “fellow user working on this” and not a person in a glass house with rocks.

>>benree+(OP)
Yes! I made a little edit just to make it clear I'm not trying to dismiss the hard work, and even though it's a really hard space to compete in, someone has to try or there will never be alternatives.

>>root_a+k1
Hey, you responded better to that feedback than I probably would have!

Serious thank you for leading the way on high-value habits I’m still working on!

>>benree+R2
This thread is wholesome AF.

>>root_a+k1
If you're open for alternatives, framing it in in a way like "I know you're trying to accomplish X, but due to Y, I think the outcome is more along Z". So something like "I know you're going for a soft launch, but without providing a more concrete and demonstrative user experience, the current status of the project is more of a tech demo".

This approach acknowledges what the person is trying to accomplish, and lays out the obstacles before arriving at the conclusion, which then feels more natural. The recipient is able to follow your thinking and hopefully "arrive" at the conclusion along with you. When you start with the conclusion, you risk having a jarring moment where you start with something unexpected, and that can generate friction.

>>benree+(OP)
As someone who has also built websites alone and on zero budget, I thank you both.