Is it a failure if no one knows about it?

Maybe, maybe not. It depends on the context.

If you’re trying to build an initiative and no one knows about it, then yes, it’s a failure.

But if you’re just trying to get some traction with your product or service, then maybe not.

The thing with invisible failure is that it’s hard to see. You can’t measure it, and you can’t fix it. So how do you know if you’re failing?

Maybe what you perceive as failure is actually a growing pain. A temporary lull before you move to the next level.