When it comes to mobile app development, the onboarding process is often overlooked as an afterthought. However, a well-designed onboarding experience can make all the difference in retaining users and driving engagement. In this article, we'll explore the importance of onboarding and provide 9 best practices to help you create a seamless user experience that sets your app up for success.
Why Is App Onboarding Important?
In today's crowded mobile market, it's more challenging than ever to attract and retain users. According to statistics, 77% of users stop using an app within three days after installation. The reason is simple: they don't understand how the app benefits them. By providing a clear and intuitive onboarding experience, you can turn casual users into loyal customers.
The Purpose of Onboarding
Onboarding serves as an interactive guide that helps users quickly and easily get started with your app. It's not just about showcasing features; it's about creating a sense of value and purpose that keeps users engaged. There are three primary approaches to onboarding:
- Demonstration of advantages: Highlight the benefits of using your app
- Familiarization with features: Show users how to use key functions
- Quick tips: Provide bite-sized instructions for getting started
9 Best Practices for Onboarding
- Emphasize the Value
Show users from the start that they made the right choice by emphasizing the value your app provides. This encourages them to take the next step and become loyal customers.
- Focus on the Main
While showcasing features is important, focus on the key functions that matter most. Use notifications inside the app to announce additional features and keep users engaged.
- Ask Only What's Necessary
Don't overwhelm users with requests for personal data or device access when they first launch your app. Ask only what's necessary to get started, and save more information for later.
- Don't Overload with Information
Keep the onboarding process concise and easy to follow by using less text and incorporating animation and video instead of static images.
- Prompt What to Do Next
Use call-to-action (CTA) buttons to guide users through a specific chain of actions, increasing engagement and retention.
- Use Animation
Captivate users with engaging animations that provide a brief explanation of your app's features or demonstrate its capabilities in action.
- Don't Ask for Too Much
Simplify the registration process by asking only what's necessary, and consider adding login options like Google/Facebook to save users time.
- Offer the Opportunity to Skip
Provide an option for users who prefer a more self-directed approach or are simply impatient. This shows that you're willing to adapt to their needs.
- Make It Interactive
Now it's your turn! Our team is ready to bring your ideas to life. Contact us now to discuss your roadmap and create a mobile app onboarding experience that sets the bar high for user engagement and retention.