In UX design, onboarding is where first impressions are made. For me, it’s about bridging what users expect with what the product delivers. Over the years, I’ve learned that keeping things clear, functional, and engaging is essential. Onboarding isn’t just a technical step; it’s the start of the user’s journey with the product — and it needs to inspire confidence.
We’ve all experienced decision fatigue — too many choices, too little energy to decide. Netflix addresses this brilliantly by using smart content recommendations. Instead of overwhelming users with its vast library, Netflix narrows options based on what users are likely to enjoy. This approach not only reduces cognitive load but makes the experience feel intuitive. I’ve applied similar ideas in my projects, such as simplifying complex filters or prioritizing core features during onboarding. As the Nielsen Norman Group notes, “Users prefer efficiency over complexity when interacting with technology”.
Personalization can make or break onboarding. Blinkist’s strategy is a great example of getting it right. The app asks users a few targeted questions about their reading habits and goals, using the answers to deliver tailored content. As a result, users feel immediately understood, boosting engagement from the start. This inspires me to think about personalization as a way to empower users rather than control them. “A little personalization goes a long way, especially when it’s subtle and respectful,” highlights an author at the UX Collective.
Transparency builds trust, and Slack sets the standard. During onboarding, Slack clearly explains why permissions like notifications are needed and how they enhance the user experience. This simple, honest approach turns potential doubts into confidence. Inspired by Slack, I’ve started adding brief explanations in my designs for why user data is requested or how specific actions benefit the experience. As Slack’s team emphasizes, “Clear communication builds credibility and engagement.”
Onboarding isn’t just about introducing users to a product — it’s about forming a relationship. Simplifying decisions, personalizing thoughtfully, and fostering trust through transparency aren’t just best practices; they’re ways to show users that their time and trust matter. As UX design evolves, I find myself constantly revisiting these lessons, looking for ways to make the first steps of a user’s journey as seamless and delightful as possible. Because when onboarding feels effortless, users stick around and thrive.
Built for Mars. (2023). Slack: Building trust through onboarding transparency. Retrieved from https://builtformars.com/case-studies/slack
El Mezouar, A. (2023). Netflix vs. decision fatigue: How to solve the paradox of choice. UX Collective. Retrievedhttps://uxdesign.cc/netflix-v-decision-fatigue-ho-to-solve-the-paradox-of-choice-888ca56db4b
Growth.Design. (2023). Blinkist: Personalized onboarding done right. Retrieved from https://growth.design/case-studies/blinkist-user-onboarding
Nielsen Norman Group. (2023). Simplicity vs. choice. Retrieved from https://www.nngroup.com/articles/simplicity-vs-choice
UX Collective. (2024). Personalization and the modern UX strategy. Retrieved from https://uxcollective.com/personalization-modern-ux
