A smooth app user experience is crucial for business success. Did you know that 86% of customers are more likely to stay loyal to an app when it offers a good onboarding experience and continuous education? On the other hand, a poor user onboarding can lead to a significant drop-off of 40% to 50% in user sign-ups. These numbers emphasize the importance of creating an efficient user onboarding design that successfully engages users and boosts user retention.

What is App User Onboarding?

App user onboarding, also known as customer onboarding, refers to the process of guiding users through the initial steps of using an app and familiarizing them with its core features and functionality. It's the first impression users have of the app, and it plays a crucial role in determining whether they continue using it or abandon it.

Benefits of App User Onboarding

An effective app onboarding brings numerous advantages, including:

  • Engage users from the start by providing a smooth introduction to the app
  • Guide users through complex or unfamiliar apps with ease
  • Retain users effectively by offering a simple first-come user guidance and an interesting experience
  • Introduce new or key features to help users understand what they can do with the app
  • Improve brand loyalty by creating a strong first impression
  • Save support effort by addressing common user queries and reducing the need for customer support

Common App User Onboarding Process

The typical in-app onboarding process includes:

  • A simple sign-up page or sequence
  • A welcome screen
  • A key feature introduction or product tour
  • Customer contact and support information

Some apps also incorporate user-friendly videos, immersive micro-interactions, or even game-like experiences to make the onboarding flow more enjoyable. Simply put, effective user onboarding is usually smooth, simple, and intuitive, allowing users to achieve their goals quickly and with minimal effort.

Creating a Good App User Onboarding

To craft an exceptional app user experience, follow these best practices:

  • Understand your target audience by conducting thorough user and competitor research
  • Design an onboarding sequence that introduces new features gradually, step by step
  • Provide clear and concise instructions for users to complete the registration or onboarding process
  • Encourage users to explore the app's features and functionality with a product tour or tooltips
  • Offer incentives to invite users to perform certain actions and provide rewards for completing tasks

15 Best App User Onboarding Examples

From AR-Based Social Network apps to Microsoft OneNote, here are 15 inspiring examples of how top brands have designed their onboarding flows:

  • [Insert your favorite app onboarding example]

In conclusion, a well-crafted onboarding flow sets the foundation for a positive user experience and enhances an app's chances of long-term success. Whether you're a UI/UX designer or a developer, take the time to craft a better user onboarding solution for your project.