Prediction model for Kickstarter tells if projects will sail
(Phys.org)—From art work to eccentric gadgets to technology projects, Kickstarter is a crowdfunding site that makes many dreams come true. Since its launch in 2009, 5 million people have pledged millions on numerous creative projects. Those who have Kickstarter projects all share one question mark, if their campaign will succeed or fail. Not knowing what is ahead, they may dream big or dread failure or at least wonder if their expectations are way over the top. Can the answer of success or failure be predicted? A Swiss team of researchers say yes and the answer can come within four hours of the project's launch. As only 44% of campaigns reach their goal overall, they said, it is of high interest for creators to know early on the probability of success of their campaign, to be able to react accordingly.