First Impressions that Last: How to Design Onboarding Experiences
First impressions last a lifetime. This is an old saying that still holds true today, especially in the digital world. It can take as little as a tenth of a second to make a first impression.1 This is how quickly users will decide whether they will continue to engage with an app or website.2
For most digital experiences, onboarding is the entry door where initial judgments about the whole product are formed. Onboarding occurs when a new user first opens an app or website, guiding them through its main features and functions to ensure a quick understanding of how to use it effectively. In this piece, we will explore the psychological factors behind onboarding to help you craft a first impression that lasts.
References
- Pilat D., & Sekoul D. (2021). The First Impression Bias. The Decision Lab. Retrieved June 26, 2024, from https://thedecisionlab.com/reference-guide/psychology/the-first-impression-bias
- Kapusy, Kata & Emma, Lógó. (2020). User Experience Evaluation Methodology in the Onboarding Process: Snapchat Case Study. Ergonomics in Design: The Quarterly of Human Factors Applications. 30. 4-10. 10.1177/1064804620962270.
- Lindgaard, G., Fernandes, G., Dudek, C., & Brown, J. (2006). Attention web designers: You have 50 milliseconds to make a good first impression! Behaviour & Information Technology, 25(2), 115-126. https://doi.org/10.1080/01449290500330448
- Moran Kate, The Aesthetic-Usability Effect, Nielsen Norman Group, https://www.nngroup.com/articles/aesthetic-usability-effect/
- Meyer, A. (2024, April). The psychology behind successful user onboarding: Leveraging cognitive biases. UX Matters. Retrieved August 1, 2024, from https://www.uxmatters.com/mt/archives/2024/04/the-psychology-behind-successful-user-onboarding-leveraging-cognitive-biases.php
About the Author
Maricela Arizaga
Maricela Arizaga is a Senior UX Designer at The Decision Lab, bringing her expertise to the crossroads of strategy and creativity in the realm of digital product creation. A steadfast advocate for accessibility and inclusive design, she is dedicated to sculpting a digital landscape that combines innovation with inclusivity, driven by her conviction that outstanding design should be accessible to all.
Prior to her role at The Decision Lab, Maricela led UX product development in a global context across Travel, Retail, Automotive, and Healthcare industries. Her exceptional work has earned her usability awards, underscoring her commitment to creating user experiences that stand out.
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