Viral loop
What is a viral loop?
A viral loop is a growth mechanism where each user, by using the product, exposes it to new potential users: inviting teammates, sharing a document, sending a payment, or content with a "made with" link. Some of those people sign up and start the loop again.
Its strength is measured by the viral coefficient and how fast each cycle turns.
Why a viral loop matters
A loop built into the product grows without paid acquisition. It works best when sharing is a natural part of using the product, not a forced add-on.
Related marketing terms
The viral coefficient, or K-factor, is how many new users each user brings in on average. Above 1, a product grows on its own.
Referral marketing rewards existing customers for bringing in new ones, for example with credits or discounts for both sides.
Product-led growth is a strategy where the product itself drives acquisition and expansion, usually through free trials, freemium and sharing.
Growth hacking is fast, experiment-driven marketing that looks for cheap, scalable ways to grow, often using product, data and creativity.