Checklists & Playbooks

title: Onboarding Playbook nextjs: metadata: title: Onboarding Playbook description: Patterns and tactics to help users reach first success quickly and confidently.


Define success

  • Identify the activation event (time-to-first-value).
  • Map the shortest path from signup to success.
  • Personalize paths by role/goal when possible.

Reduce friction

  • Progressive profiling: ask later, not sooner.
  • Smart defaults and templates; import or sample data.
  • Inline guidance: hotspots, checklists, examples.

Teach by doing

  • Interactive walkthroughs over static tours.
  • Safe sandbox; undo available; no irreversible steps.
  • Celebrate progress; show remaining steps and ETA.

Safety & trust

  • Transparent permissions and data usage.
  • Clear pricing/limits; trial boundaries visible.
  • Human help: chat, email, or office hours paths.

Measurement

  • Track activation rate, TTFV, drop-off points.
  • Survey early cohorts (CES, PMF signals).
  • Iterate: A/B test copy, order, and defaults.
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Form Design Playbook