How to design an effective mobile app walkthrough

September 1, 2014

A web app walkthrough is such an important aspect of the user experience of an app. It provides users with insight into what the app can do and gives them a demo so they don't miss out on key features. This post has been designed to provide some top tips on how to design an app walkthrough taken from some of the best examples out there already.

Does our app need a walkthrough?Not every app needs a walkthrough. If your app is really simple and transparent then you don't need a walkthrough. However if your app has hidden features it is a good idea to demo it via a walkthrough so your users don't miss out on some cool functions.

Design

It is a good idea to design your walkthrough after your app has been created however don't be inconsistent with your design. Make sure the design of your walkthrough matches your overall app design - it is, after all, the first thing your users will see so it needs to have a good UX. You should also practice brand consistency through all of your brand products so you don't baffle your users.

Graphics and animations

An app walkthrough is much more enjoyable when they are accompanied with amazing pictures or images. Animations are also a great way to grab the attention of your users.

Interactive

A mobile app walkthrough doesn't have to be a one-way conversation and, in fact, your users are likely to learn how to use your app quicker if you have them interact in some way or another. It is a good idea to include actions or features in your walk-through that users will need to use in your app. So if you use the swipe tool in your app, include it in the walkthrough too. This way the users know exactly what they will get from the app.

Get out clause

Not everybody wants to do a walkthrough and it is vital to give your users a way out from the get go. The last thing you want to do is lose users because they aren't interested in your walkthrough and so leave your app.  The simplest thing to do here is offer a 'Skip this' button or a simple cross in the top corner. Play with your copy on your button if that is the route you decide to take - maybe 'I got this!' If you want them to at least scroll through the walkthrough, you can give them the option to swipe quickly through.

Do you have more app walkthough design tips? Comment down below.

Written by
Alexander Rauser
Alexander Rauser

CEO

Alexander Rauser is the author of Boardroom Guide to Digital Accountability and Digital Strategy: A Guide to Digital Business Transformation, and creator of the DSX Program, a digital strategy and transformation program for Enterprises.

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