Progressive Disclosure Examples
Quick collection of apps that do progressive disclosure well.
Notion
- Starts with empty workspace
- Templates appear only when needed
- Advanced features hidden in menus until user explores
Slack
- Basic chat first
- Threads introduced contextually
- Workflow automations appear after team growth
Linear
- Core issue tracking visible immediately
- Projects, cycles, and roadmaps introduced gradually
- Advanced filtering appears as issue volume grows
Key Pattern
Show the minimum viable interface first, expand based on usage patterns.
Related Reading
- First Time User Experience article
- “The best interface is no interface” - principle
Questions This Raises
- How do you know when to reveal the next layer?
- What metrics indicate readiness for more complexity?
Captured while researching User Onboarding Patterns