Sample Data Acceleration
Pre-populate accounts with sample data and templates so new users see value immediately. Persona-segmented seed files, a browseable template gallery, and automated engagement monitoring drive interaction rates and activation lift.
npx gtm-skills add product/onboard/sample-data-templatesOutcome
>=70% of seeded users interact with at least 1 sample record within 48 hours
Leading Indicators
- Sample data interaction rate
- Time to first action
- Activation rate (seeded vs. control)
Instructions
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Run the sample-data-seeding drill: design a seed file for one persona with 3-5 primary objects in different states (completed, in-progress, not-started) plus supporting objects. Include one hero record showcasing the product's core value.
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Implement the injection endpoint: on signup, seed sample data into test accounts gated by PostHog feature flag. Deploy to 10-50 new signups with a 50/50 split (seeded vs. empty control).
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Run the onboarding-flow drill to build a first-run orientation: welcome message explaining sample data, pointer to the hero record, clear CTA to explore or create their own, and a 'Clear sample data' link.
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Track events in PostHog: sample_data_injected, sample_data_orientation_started, sample_data_orientation_completed, sample_data_record_viewed, sample_data_first_interaction, sample_data_cleared.
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Run the threshold-engine drill after 1 week: compute interaction rate (% of seeded users who viewed at least 1 sample record within 48h). Compare seeded vs. control activation rates.
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Pass threshold: >=70% interaction rate. If PASS, document seed file and injection method, proceed to Baseline. If FAIL, diagnose: discoverability (users never see data), content (not interesting), or relevance (persona mismatch).
Recommendations
Time
6 hours over 1 week
Play-specific cost
Free