Chat Subtopics: A Smart Feature or a Chat Killer?

Photo by Chase Clarkon Unsplash

Chat subtopics are a feature that allows users to create separate threads, or chat channels, within a larger conversation, usually based on a specific theme or question. They are designed to help organize and manage discussions, especially in large or complex groups. But are they really useful, or just a way to clutter the chat?

I’m a founder of Caughtup LLC, an app that makes it easier to spend time with others, and I’m constantly think about how to improve our customer experience. Here I’m sharing my thoughts on Chat Subtopics. For the product we’re making, a platform for casual communication, I think it’s not a good fit because of the fragmentation. Think about how you chat with your friends now. Do you use chat channels? Why not?

There are a lot of pros and cons to adding features. And I’m sure that certain people will prefer one design and functionality over the other. But, that’s the hard part of design, it can be very subjective. Here are the top pros and cons I think exist.

The Pros of Chat Subtopics

Chat subtopics can have some benefits, such as:

• Reducing noise and confusion: Chat subtopics can help filter out irrelevant or off-topic messages from the main chat, making it easier to follow and participate in the conversation. For example, if you are in a group chat about a project, you can create a subtopic for each task or issue, and only see the messages related to that subtopic.
• Increasing engagement and feedback: Chat subtopics can encourage users to share their opinions and ideas on a specific topic, without feeling overwhelmed or intimidated by the larger group. For example, if you are in a group chat about a movie, you can create a subtopic for each character or scene, and discuss your thoughts and feelings with other fans.
• Enhancing collaboration and productivity: Chat subtopics can facilitate teamwork and problem-solving, by allowing users to focus on a specific goal or challenge, and exchange information and resources. For example, if you are in a group chat about a game, you can create a subtopic for each level or strategy, and help each other out.

The Cons of Chat Subtopics

Chat subtopics can also have some drawbacks, such as:

• Creating fragmentation and isolation: Chat subtopics can make users feel disconnected from the main chat, and miss out on important or interesting messages. For example, if you are in a group chat about a party, you might create a subtopic for each activity or food, and end up not talking to anyone outside your subtopic.
• Increasing complexity and hassle: Chat subtopics can add unnecessary layers and steps to the chat experience, and make it harder to navigate and manage. For example, if you are in a group chat about a book, you might create a subtopic for each chapter or theme, and have to switch between multiple subtopics to follow the story.
• Reducing spontaneity and fun: Chat subtopics can limit the natural flow and diversity of the chat, and make it less enjoyable and engaging. For example, if you are in a group chat about a sport, you might create a subtopic for each player or team, and lose the excitement and banter of the game.

The Verdict

Chat subtopics are not a bad idea, but they are not for everyone. They can be useful for some situations and groups, but they can also be annoying and unnecessary for others. The best way to decide whether to use chat subtopics or not is to consider the following factors:

• The size and purpose of the group: Chat subtopics are more suitable for large or formal groups, where the chat can get crowded or chaotic, and where the users have a common goal or interest. Chat subtopics are less suitable for small or casual groups, where the chat is more relaxed and personal, and where the users have diverse or random topics.
• The preference and behavior of the users: Chat subtopics are more suitable for users who like to have structure and order in their chats, and who are willing to follow the rules and etiquette of the subtopics. Chat subtopics are less suitable for users who like to have freedom and flexibility in their chats, and who are more likely to ignore or break the rules and etiquette of the subtopics.

In conclusion, chat subtopics are not a bad idea, but they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. They can be helpful or harmful, depending on how and when they are used. The key is to find the right balance and fit for your group and chat. And remember, you can always create or delete subtopics as you go, or just stick to the main chat. The choice is yours. Happy chatting! 😊

Journal

• 2024-02-09 Created file