How a Progress Indicator Can Worsen Onboarding Conversion Rates 😒

The 6 Most Suitable Types of Progress Indicators:

Benefits of a Progress Indicator:

Increases sense of control: Reduces cognitive load and eliminates the uncertainty of when onboarding will end.

Micro-dopamine stimulation: Segmented progress indicators provide small rewards when a segment is fully completed.
💡 This effect can be enhanced if an interim result or reward is given at the end of a block linked to the segment.

Zeigarnik effect: This psychological principle pushes users to finish what they started.
For this effect to work, consider the initial motivation, user fatigue level, task complexity, etc.

Potential Drawbacks:

However, if onboarding has many steps and users struggle to notice progress, it can demotivate them.

Users may feel the process will never end (Example - Yazio app)

Users may think the app is malfunctioning, reducing trust.

Choosing the Right Type of Progress Bar:

1.Linear Progress Bar:
Suitable for onboarding with few steps, where the visual difference between steps is noticeable.

2.Segmented Progress Indicator: Works for medium-sized onboarding processes but be cautious; too many segments can overwhelm users.

3.Number of Steps or Percentages: Displaying steps or percentages is effective as users only need to remember the progress from the previous step.

4.Combined Linear/Segmented + Numeric: Optimal for onboarding with a moderate number of steps, as it is easy to assess visually.

5.Combined Option + Images: Relevant images can increase motivation, as our brain loves novelty and unexpected elements.
💡 Ensure images are relevant, as irrelevant ones can distract and waste valuable attention.

When to Avoid a Progress Indicator:

Short Onboarding: For 2-4 steps, a progress indicator might be unnecessary and could distract from the main content.

Very Long Onboarding: For 100 steps, if brand recognition or user motivation is low, a progress indicator might cause users to drop out early. 💡 (Use 6th type) In this case, you can show what awaits the user (5-6 main logical blocks). Explain what each block offers the user, and provide some value at the end of each block. A great example of this approach is the Lose It app.

A progress indicator is a powerful tool that needs to be used correctly. Therefore, when designing our service, we made it possible to use all types or opt-out entirely.

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