The Solus Effect

01 — Objective

Create a space where Solus owners could connect, collaborate, and contribute.

Following Aero Precision's launch of the Solus bolt-action rifle, I set out to build a community that empowered end-users to share insights, ask questions, and help shape the future of the product line.

02 — Approach

When creating a transactional community funded by the transfer of knowledge, your subject matter experts are your most valuable form of currency.

I curated Aero Precision's most knowledgeable team members and positioned them as accessible moderators. There presence transformed the community from a passive forum into a living, breathing network of shared experience and trust.

03 — 4 Pillars of a Successful Community

1. Curate & Empower SME's

Identify internal subject matter experts and position them as moderators to guide technical discussion and build credibility.

2. Set Structure & Standards

Establish and enforce clear community guidelines to maintain tone, quality of UGC and respect.

3. Foster Meaningful Engagement

Seed conversations, highlight member builds, and celebrate helpful contributions to sustain authentic interaction.

4. Build Trust Through Presence

Keep the brand visible and responsive. When users see you listening, they stay invested.

The Solus Owners Group on two separate occasions has allowed us to identify, address, and rectify product specific issues that could have otherwise taken months to surface.

04 — Outcome

In the first year, the Solus Owner's Group grew to over 1,400 active members and generated more than 550 unique pieces of user-generated content. The community created an immediate feedback loop that ultimately improved product performance and strengthened long-term brand trust.

05 - Key Insights

A thriving community doesn't just talk about your product - it builds it with you.

By giving expert users a platform to share, connect, and collaborate, we turned ownership into advocacy and transformed feedback into innovation.