First-run experiences determine whether users understand, value, and continue using a product. These critical moments set expectations, demonstrate value, and lay the foundation for long-term engagement.
Essential first-run objectives:
- Value demonstration: Showing core benefits quickly
- Friction reduction: Removing barriers to initial success
- Mental model building: Creating understanding of how things work
- Feature discovery: Introducing key capabilities appropriately
- Emotional connection: Generating positive first impressions
- Context establishment: Setting appropriate expectations
- Progress recognition: Acknowledging advancement
First-run design patterns:
- Welcome sequences: Introducing product purpose and benefits
- Guided tours: Walking through key interface elements
- Interactive tutorials: Learning by doing rather than watching
- Progressive disclosure: Revealing features gradually as needed
- Contextual tips: In-the-moment guidance at point of relevance
- Empty states: Turning blank screens into opportunities
- Quick wins: Early successes that build confidence and momentum
Implementation best practices:
- Prioritize value over features in introduction
- Test with users genuinely new to the product
- Create skippable paths for experienced users
- Balance excitement with information utility
- Measure both completion and post-onboarding engagement
- Design for different learning styles and preferences
- Create multiple entry points for various user contexts
Research shows effective first-run experiences can increase user retention by 50% and significantly impact long-term product adoption and advocacy.
As product designer Samuel Hulick explains: "People don't buy products; they buy better versions of themselves. Your job is to show them the path to that transformation as quickly as possible."