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Customer Experience
  I  
December 7, 2023
  I  
xx min read

20 Customer Experience Metrics You Should Be Tracking

Everyone wants happy customers. But how do you know if your customers are actually happy? Customer experience metrics are like report cards for organizations, showing how well they're doing in keeping their users satisfied.

Why are these metrics so important? Satisfied users often come back, tell their friends about the great experience, and even spend more. On the other hand, unhappy users might leave and never come back. By keeping an eye on these metrics, organizations can make sure they're always giving their users the best experience possible.

Now, let's explore 20 of the most important customer experience metrics and understand why they matter so much.

1. Net Promoter Score (NPS)

NPS is a metric derived from asking customers a single question: "Would you recommend this platform to a friend or colleague?" Based on their rating from 0-10, customers are categorized as Promoters, Passives, or Detractors.

graphic shows how to calculate a net promoter score

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NPS is a powerful tool to gauge overall customer satisfaction and loyalty. It not only provides a snapshot of how users feel about a platform, but also offers insights into potential areas of improvement. A consistently high NPS can be a strong indicator of customer loyalty and satisfaction.

2. Customer Satisfaction (CSAT)

CSAT measures the short-term satisfaction of customers by asking them about their recent interactions or transactions with a platform.

CSAT is vital for understanding immediate user reactions. By regularly monitoring CSAT scores, platforms can quickly identify and address issues, ensuring that users always have positive interactions.

3. Customer Effort Score (CES)

CES evaluates the ease with which users can achieve their desired outcomes on a platform. 

In today's digital age, users expect seamless experiences. A high CES indicates that users can easily navigate and use a platform, leading to increased satisfaction and reduced churn.

4. Content Accuracy Rate

This metric evaluates the correctness, relevancy, and timeliness of the content provided to users.

In a content-driven platform, accuracy is paramount. Ensuring that content is correct and relevant enhances user trust and reduces the likelihood of misinformation, which can lead to user dissatisfaction.

5. Content Engagement Rate

The Content Engagement Rate is a measure of how users interact with content, considering metrics like views, shares, comments, and time spent.

Engagement is a direct reflection of content quality. High engagement rates indicate that content resonates with users, while low rates can signal a disconnect and the need for content strategy adjustments.

6. Average Resolution Time

The Average Resolution Time is the average amount of time taken to fully address and resolve a user's reported issue.

graphic shows how organizations can calculate the average resolution time

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While initial responses are crucial, timely issue resolution is equally important. A short resolution time ensures that users face minimal disruptions, leading to a more positive overall experience.

7. Content Production Time

Content Production Time is the duration from the inception of content creation to its final publication.

In the fast-paced digital world, timely content delivery is crucial. Monitoring production time ensures that content processes are efficient and that users receive timely updates.

8. Content Approval Time

This customer experience metric measures the time it takes for content to move from submission to final approval.

Delays in content approval can hinder timely publication. A streamlined approval process ensures that valuable content reaches its audience promptly, maintaining user engagement and trust.

9. First Response Time

The First Response Time is the average duration taken to provide an initial response to a user's inquiry or issue. 

First impressions matter. A swift initial response shows users that their concerns are valued, enhancing their overall perception of the platform's customer service.

10. Churn Rate

Churn rate shows the percentage of customers who stop using a platform or service over a specific time frame.

Keeping customers is often cheaper than acquiring new ones. A high churn rate can indicate dissatisfaction, signaling areas that need improvement. It's essential to balance between customer acquisition and retention, as retaining existing customers can be more cost-effective.

11. Retention Rate

The opposite of churn rate, this customer experience metric measures how many customers continue to use a platform or service over time. 

A high retention rate suggests that customers are finding value in the platform. According to a recent study, loyal customers are 5x more likely to repurchase, 5x more likely to forgive, 4x more likely to refer, and 7x more likely to try a new offering.

graphic shows that loyal customers are 5x more likely to repurchase, 5x more likely to forgive, 4x more likely to refer, and 7x more likely to try a new offering

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12. Customer Lifetime Value (CLV)

CLV predicts the total profit an organization can make from a customer throughout their relationship. 

Understanding CLV helps organizations allocate resources effectively. It can guide marketing spend, customer service resources, and more. A higher CLV suggests that customers are finding long-term value in the platform.

13. First Contact Resolution

This customer experience metric measures how often customer issues are resolved in the first interaction.

Resolving issues quickly enhances customer satisfaction. Customers appreciate efficient service, leading to increased loyalty and positive word-of-mouth.

14. Ticket Volume

This is the number of customer support tickets or inquiries received in a given period. 

A sudden increase in ticket volume can indicate a widespread issue or challenge that customers are facing, signaling areas that need immediate attention.

15. Average Handle Time

Average Handle Time is the average time taken to resolve customer inquiries or issues.

graphic shows how organizations can calculate average handle time

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While quick resolutions are essential, ensuring that issues are thoroughly addressed is equally crucial. This metric helps balance efficiency with effectiveness.

16. Feedback Collection Rate

Feedback Collection Rate is the rate at which customers provide feedback when prompted. 

Feedback is invaluable for continuous improvement. A high feedback collection rate indicates engaged customers who are invested in the platform's betterment.

17. Self-Service Usage Rate

This metric is the percentage of customers who use self-service options (like FAQs or chatbots) instead of contacting customer support.

A high self-service usage rate can reduce the load on customer support teams and indicates that users are finding the resources provided helpful.

18. Social Media Mentions

This is the number of times a platform or service is mentioned on social media. 

Social media is a powerful tool for gauging public sentiment. Positive mentions can boost a brand's image, while negative mentions can provide insights into areas of improvement.

19. Referral Rate

A Referral Rate is the percentage of current customers who refer new customers to the platform.

Referrals are a strong indicator of customer satisfaction. Happy customers are more likely to recommend a platform to peers.

20. User Onboarding Time

This metric is the time it takes for a new user to become proficient with the platform.

A short onboarding time suggests an intuitive and user-friendly platform. It ensures that users can quickly derive value from the platform, leading to increased satisfaction.

Discover The Power of Customer Experience Metrics with Heretto

In the end, it all boils down to one simple truth: Happy customers are the backbone of any successful organization. By keeping an eye on these customer experience metrics, organizations can get a clear picture of how they're doing and where they can do better. 

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