Snowflake Partner Connect to AAC
Designing an Activation Email for AAC Trial Sign-Up through Snowflake Partner Connect and establishing a Standard Email Template within the Onyx Design System
Total Reading Time: 7 mins
TYPE
Partner Integration
ROLE
Lead Designer
TOOLS
Figma
TEAM
Growth, Platform
YEAR
2023
WHAT I DID
Research and Analysis
UX/UI design and Prototyping
Collaborated with visual design and copy team to implement brand and design system guidelines
Led remote design reviews and brainstorm sessions with stakeholders and developers
Collaborated with visual design team to standardize email template
Led remote design awareness presentation with design team
Project Overview
Proposal
In the process of enabling Snowflake users to sign up for the AAC trial through Snowflake Partner Connect, it was identified that no activation email was sent to users after they clicked "Connect" to sign up. This absence of communication created uncertainty for users, which potentially led to confusion and disengagement.
Goals
The proposal aimed to improve communication by creating an activation email that confirmed the user's sign-up and provided essential next steps. This would enhance the user experience by reducing anxiety and clarifying the onboarding process. Additionally, the email sought to increase engagement by encouraging users to explore the AAC platform immediately after signing up.
Challenge: How do we create an effective activation email from scratch, given the absence of an existing product-deployed template?
Solution
Recognizing the need for a structured email template, I decided to work backwards by first creating the activation email itself. This foundational step informed the development of a cohesive design strategy that included defining key content elements, establishing visual guidelines, and incorporating best practices for user engagement. This approach ensured that the emails effectively communicated important information and provided a seamless onboarding experience for users signing up for the AAC trial through Snowflake Partner Connect.
Designer Cloud Trail Activation Email
Designer Cloud Trail Extension Email
Design Process - Highlights
Research
Starting with research on existing emails within the platform was essential. This investigation revealed that there was no established email standard, highlighting the need for consistent messaging. By understanding current practices, I was able to design an activation email that aligned with the brand's voice and effectively addressed user needs, ultimately enhancing the onboarding experience for AAC trial users.
Ideation
With the research complete, the next step focuses on the activation email's purpose: to engage users immediately after they click "Connect" to sign up for the AAC trial. This email will serve as a vital touchpoint for new users, guiding them through their trial experience and ensuring they feel welcomed and informed. To effectively achieve this, the following key elements will be included in the email:
Product Overview: A brief introduction to the partner connection of Alteryx and Snowflake, developed in collaboration with marketing team to ensure accuracy and relevance.
Trial Duration: Clear information about the length of the trial period, helping users understand their access timeline.
Trial Details: A succinct explanation of what the AAC trial entails, so users know what to expect and how to maximize their experience.
Sender Information: Users will be informed that the email invitation comes from Snowflake, reinforcing trust and credibility.
Call to Action: The email will prominently feature an "Activate Now" button, encouraging users to take the next step in their onboarding process.
Next Step
The final design received positive feedback from stakeholders and the design systems team. I successfully handed off the designs to the Growth PM and engineering team, where they were integrated into the user flow. Additionally, the design systems team incorporated the template into the Onyx design system as the new standard, ensuring consistency and alignment across future communications.
Lessons Learned
Focus on User Journey: An activation email serves as a critical touchpoint that can significantly impact users' initial experiences and perceptions of a product
Iterative Design Process: Working backwards from the activation email allowed for a clearer focus on the essential elements needed for effective communication. This iterative approach can lead to more refined and user-centered designs
Establishing Standards: Incorporating the new template into the Onyx design system established a standard for future email communications. This step underscores the importance of creating reusable components that can streamline future design efforts and maintain consistency
