Redesigning the LiftMaster App Step 0.1: The Signup Screen
Wall. Of. Text boxes.
The current signup screen (on the left above) is a long list of text boxes and check boxes. In addition, the white on grey has a certain Windows 95 vibe going on. LiftMaster is also asking for a LOT of information. For the life of me, I don't understand why the want my first and last name, zip code, and timezone. Want it, yes. Need it, no. And why both zip code AND timezone? Wouldn't knowing the zip give you the timezone? As the saying goes, never ask a question when you can figure out the answer yourself.
The first thing I did was making it look, stylistically, like the login screen. In general, the only difference between sign IN and sign UP is whether or not the app already knows you. It makes sense cognitively for the screens to look similar.
In my opinion, the more (and more personal) information you ask for is another step closer to losing a potential user. In the case of a garage door opener app, all you really need is email (as a username) and password. Send a welcome email with a teaser for "Registration" with incentives for disclosing additional info; don't clutter the first time registration with requests for unnecessary info.
The password complexity description occupies a LOT of screen real estate; close to 1/5 of the total screen. Since this app can potentially provide access to your home, a strong password is a must. However, I would opt for a dynamically appearing/disappearing pop-up when a user taps into the password field the first time. In the original app, there is also no realtime feedback if your password is valid or if the confirmation matches. I have addressed with with the green check to indicate the password is both valid and confirmed.
Accepting the terms of use is an unfortunate but probably necessary step for this app. I debated whether or not to include a defaulted-off toggle button for acceptance but instead chose to optimize for reduced number of clicks.
On to the next step - Landing Page.