Back to GrowthDex
Growth idea action plan

Microsoft Marketplace getting-started field as admin handoff

Use the getting-started field to carry the first setup steps and doc links, so the listing still works after the admin clicks through and starts asking what has to happen next.

rare tacticfree budget

Why this can grow a startup

A marketplace listing usually fails after the interested click, not before it. The admin understands what the tool does, but cannot tell what setup work is waiting on the other side. Microsoft gives SaaS offers a dedicated getting-started block for that exact transition. Treating it like real onboarding copy keeps the page honest about the first configuration steps and lowers the odds that qualified intent turns into a support thread. It also keeps the evaluation moving in public instead of forcing every serious question into sales email.

Company example

Microsoft's listing-details guide says publishers can use the Getting started instructions box to help customers connect to the SaaS offer and can include links to more detailed online documentation.

Source and metric

Source: Microsoft Learn: Configure SaaS offer listing details in Microsoft Marketplace

The Getting started instructions field supports up to 3,000 characters.

MarketplacesOnboardingConversionappsourcesetup docsadmin reviewpost-click onboarding
GrowthDex operator note

When to use it

Use this when Marketplaces, Onboarding, Conversion is relevant to appsource, setup docs, admin review and you can run a bounded test with a free budget.

When not to use it

Do not use it as a substitute for customer evidence, a clear owner, or a measurable stop condition. Local platform rules and market behavior still need checking.

Founder checklist

  1. Read Microsoft Learn: Configure SaaS offer listing details in Microsoft Marketplace and identify what is directly supported.
  2. Choose one channel context: Marketplaces, Onboarding, Conversion.
  3. Define the test around The Getting started instructions field supports up to 3,000 characters..
  4. Set an owner, evidence window, and stop condition before launch.

Explore the context

Product-Led GrowthMarketplacesOnboardingConversion

Related tactics

Chrome Web Store five-screenshot install story

Use the full five-screenshot allowance to show the setup, the core action, and the payoff so the listing starts onboarding before the user hits install.

uncommonMarketplaces, Onboarding, Conversion

Discord App Directory install link before page polish

Configure the install link before polishing the App Directory page, because Discord removes the Add App button and directory eligibility when no install link exists.

epicMarketplaces, Conversion, Onboarding

Slack Marketplace landing page shows the Slack workflow

Build a public landing page that shows the app working inside Slack, includes a clear install path, and redirects new installs to a next-step page instead of dumping them into a generic homepage.

rareMarketplaces, Onboarding, Conversion

Figma Community video carousel before plugin install

Use the Community media carousel to show the plugin in motion before asking for an install, because a thumbnail alone cannot explain workflow tools well enough.

uncommonMarketplaces, Conversion, Onboarding

Teams Store long description names audience benefits and setup

Use the Teams long description to spell out the audience, daily scenario, install constraints, and a short benefit stack before anyone talks to sales.

epicMarketplaces, Conversion, Sales

WordPress plugin Installation section carries the post-install work

Use the readme Installation section for custom setup notes the admin needs right after activation, not as a generic unzip tutorial.

uncommonOnboarding, Marketplaces, Documentation
Advisory bridge

Apply this with an operator

Choose product surfaces that compound distribution without hiding weak activation or retention.

Work with Ian