Distribution issue

• You developed an open-source software which you are proud of
• Shipped to github and wrote a blog article or two
• Silence
• Noticed that nobody knows your app (of course!)
• Post a few PRs to Reddit or other online community
• Silence and/or rejection <== I’m here

I wonder if many developers have experienced this. It’s just that you want someone other than yourself to try your app. Would it be too much to hope for?

Probably yes. Online communities are pretty hostile against app PRs, perhaps partly due to recent vibe-coding trend. (Posting to a Reddit sub without reading their rules was purely my fault.)

Realizing this harsh reality is depressing. Why would you be punished by wanting others to use your app?

Some say it’s a distribution issue. If your app is just decent and not exceptional, you need to go to where (you think) needs are, and persuade one person at a time.

Well, it’s not for making money (my app is open-source and free). Would I want to go that far?

I personally utilized a speech at my Toastmasters club. I created a presentation deck and gave a speech about my app. Audiences were all very nice people. Thank you for your attention, fellow Toastmasters! I feel better now.