When I joined Instagram, I was scrolling within minutes. The app barely asked for information to create account; all you need is a unique username, email, and age before you’re dropped into a feed. Instagram’s goal appears to be delivering instant gratification. By showing content right away, it rewards curiosity and reduces drop-off. Its biggest optional step—syncing contacts—adds a bit of friction, but since users can skip it, drop-off likely stays low, around 5%. The priority here isn’t learning about me deeply; it’s keeping me engaged long enough to form a habit.
Notion adds a little more friction, but it’s purposeful. After signing in, it asks how I plan to use it—personal notes, team docs, or schoolwork. This brief questionnaire helps tailor templates and workspace layouts to each user’s intent. It’s a small delay that pays off in personalization. I’d estimate 10–15% of users drop here, often those unwilling to fill out forms, but for those who continue, Notion’s setup feels intelligent and relevant from the start.
Then there’s Venmo, whose onboarding feels like airport security. Before sending any amount of money, users must verify their identity and link a bank. This is a massive friction point. Many people hesitate at the thought of entering financial data due to scams and how tedious the act can be. Estimates suggest 30–40% of users drop off here. But Venmo’s trade-off is necessary: safety and trust outweigh convenience. Once verified, the payoff is great; you can now transfer money between your friends quite seamlessly.
Ultimately, each app balances information and immediacy differently: Instagram sells instant gratification, Notion sells personalization, and Venmo sells security. The best onboarding isn’t necessarily friction-free, but rather it’s friction that feels justified.
