Feedforward
Show users a clear preview of what happens next to reduce friction and errors.
Definition
Feedforward is the practice of showing users a preview or hint of the outcome before they take an action.
It prepares users by giving them a clear expectation of what will happen next, reducing anxiety and boosting confidence.
Rooted in cognitive psychology’s anticipation principle, feedforward leverages our brain’s desire to predict outcomes and avoid surprises.
By communicating the future state, like how data will change, what the confirmation screen looks like, or how a form submission flows, you build trust and guide users smoothly through interactions.
In UX, feedforward is as fundamental as feedback; while feedback tells users what happened, feedforward tells them what will happen, and that clarity drives higher engagement and fewer errors.
Real world example
Think about Google Maps when you tap a destination, before you even hit “Start,” you see an overview of the route, estimated time, and turn-by-turn steps. That feedforward preview lets you confirm you’re on the right track and adjust before committing to navigation.
Real world example
Feedforward is critical in user onboarding flows where you need to preview step-by-step progress bars and next steps to set expectations.
It’s also key on confirmation dialogs, showing users a snapshot of the data they’re about to delete or submit prevents costly errors.
Within checkout forms, feedforward manifests as inline cost previews, shipping estimates, and order summaries before the final purchase click.
What are the key benefits?
Everything you need to make smarter growth decisions, without the guesswork or wasted time.
Show a concise preview of the next screen or result inline.
Use progressive disclosure to reveal outcomes as users make selections.
Add inline tooltips that forecast the effect of toggles or options.
What are the key benefits?
Everything you need to make smarter growth decisions, without the guesswork or wasted time.
Don’t leave users guessing by hiding confirmation details until after submission.
Avoid generic labels like “Submit” without context or outcome preview.
Don’t overload previews, focus on the most critical outcome details.
Frequently asked questions
Growth co-pilot turns your toughest product questions into clear, data-backed recommendations you can act on immediately.
What’s the difference between feedforward and feedback?
Feedforward tells users what will happen before they act, setting clear expectations. Feedback tells them what just happened after the action. Both are essential, but feedforward prevents errors up front.
When should I use feedforward in my app?
Use it in any high-stakes or multi-step interaction: form submissions, data deletions, financial transactions, or onboarding steps. If a mistake costs time or money, preview the outcome.
Can too much feedforward overwhelm users?
Yes, overloading screens with every possible outcome creates noise. Stick to the most impactful details: error risks, cost changes, next steps. Keep previews focused and scannable.
How does feedforward affect conversion rates?
By reducing uncertainty, feedforward builds trust and confidence, which cuts drop-off points in flows like checkout or sign-up, directly boosting conversions.
Is feedforward only for web interfaces?
No. Feedforward works in mobile apps, desktop software, and even hardware interfaces, anywhere you can preview next steps or outcomes to guide user decisions.
Preview Your Product’s Blindspots
If your users are stumbling because they don’t know what’s coming next, run your flows through the CrackGrowth diagnostic. We’ll pinpoint every missing feedforward cue so you can eliminate guesswork and boost conversions.