The Activity Locking/Unlocking feature allows app creators to control when specific activities within an app become accessible to users. By locking activities, creators can guide users through a structured progression, ensuring they engage with content at the appropriate time, often after completing pre-set conditions. This feature can enhance personalized user journeys and provide a clear sense of progression within the app.
User Experience on Mobile and Web
When using the Activity Locking/Unlocking feature, users will see activities marked with a lock icon if they are currently inaccessible. Upon attempting to access these locked activities, users will receive a pop-up message explaining that the activity is locked and what action (if any) is needed to unlock it. This is consistent across both mobile and web versions of the app.
On mobile, locked activities will appear with the lock icon on widgets like “Featured Activities,” “Up Next,” and in the “Explore” section. Web users will see a similar interface with clear messaging and interactive elements that align with the app’s visual style.
On both mobile and web platforms, locked activities follow a consistent design:
Web | Mobile |
Pop-up Message: The default pop-up message will include the lock icon and a message explaining why the activity is locked, with customizable options for text.
By utilizing this feature, app creators can ensure that users follow the intended flow, gaining access to content only when necessary conditions are met.
Possible use cases:
The Activity Locking/Unlocking feature in digital health apps enables personalized, structured experiences, guiding users through health programs by unlocking activities based on their progress and needs. Here are some of the possible use cases:
Wellness Programs: Unlock new fitness routines or mental health exercises only after completing prior sessions to encourage gradual progress.
Patient Education: Lock advanced learning materials until users master basic health concepts, ensuring a step-by-step understanding.
Behavioral Health: Unlock new modules after users achieve milestones, such as completing mood tracking or journaling tasks.
Rehabilitation: Guide patients through recovery by unlocking exercises as they progress, preventing overexertion or injury.
How to Use the Locking/Unlocking Feature
Locking Activities
1. Access the Activity List
Go to the Activity List within your subject.
You’ll find a "Lock Activities" button next to the "Create New Activity" button. Click on this to start locking specific activities.
2. Manage Locked Activities
A pop-up will appear where you can manage which activities you want to lock within the selected Subject. Click on "Manage Activities" to select the activities.
The number of locked activities will be displayed and updated as you make selections.
3. Lock Activities
Choose the activities you want to lock.
Once selected, click "Save" to apply the changes. The locked activities will be marked with a lock icon in the activity list.
Unlocking Activities
To unlock activities, you need to use behavior settings by configuring the appropriate triggers and results.
Go to the Navigation tab and open the Behaviors menu in Creator.
Click on Create New Behavior.
Set up the required Trigger. When the user meets the conditions of this trigger, the locked activity will automatically unlock. This trigger could be based on responses to questions, activities, or other options.
Under Result, choose Transaction, then set Type to “Unlock Activity” to make the previously locked activity accessible.
To activate this Behavior you will need to enable Open option.
Save Changes
Customizing the Lock Message
You can display a custom message when the locked activity notification appears by following these steps:
To customize the lock message that users will see, return to the "Lock Activities" screen.
Select "Edit Lock Message"
You can also edit the text of the lock message (maximum 100 characters).
Once edited, save the changes. These customizations will apply to all locked activities under that Subject.
Best Practice Tips:
Balance Locking and Freedom: To create a welcoming experience for new users, it's crucial to provide clear direction on where to start. A well-organized structure and flow should guide them through the initial activities, making it clear that completing these steps unlocks additional features or content. This approach fosters a sense of progress and ensures users can easily navigate the platform throughout their app journey.
Use Clear Lock Messages: Customize the lock message to inform users why the activity is locked and what they need to do to unlock it. Keep the message clear and concise to avoid confusion, and use a consistent tone aligned with the app’s purpose.