Activation checklist replacing tooltip tours (Senja method)
Replace passive tooltip-based onboarding tours with a visible 3-to-5-item checklist tied directly to core value delivery to double activation rates.
Why this can grow a startup
Tooltip tours are passive — users click through them without absorbing anything, then feel lost once the tour ends. A visible checklist transforms an open-ended new experience into concrete, achievable tasks that users feel motivated to complete. The satisfaction of checking items off keeps users engaged through the critical first session. Limiting to 3-5 items prevents cognitive overload while ensuring users reach the product's core value before dropping off.
Company example
Senja (testimonial collection tool) — replaced their traditional tooltip product tour with a short, completable activation checklist guiding users to their aha moment; doubled their activation rate and grew to $33K MRR.
Source and metric
Source: eleken.co
33K MRR
Source discovered: March 22, 2026
When to use it
Use this when Email, Referrals is relevant to 0-100, 100-1K and you can run a bounded test with a free budget.
When not to use it
Do not use it as a substitute for customer evidence, a clear owner, or a measurable stop condition. Local platform rules and market behavior still need checking.
Founder checklist
- Read eleken.co and identify what is directly supported.
- Choose one channel context: Email, Referrals.
- Define the test around 33K MRR.
- Set an owner, evidence window, and stop condition before launch.
Explore the context
Apply this with an operator
Choose product surfaces that compound distribution without hiding weak activation or retention.