In Playlab, Starter Inputs allow you to collect information from users before they begin interacting with your app. This guide will walk you through the process of adding and configuring different types of starter inputs to enhance your app’s functionality and user experience.

Preview Required

You must preview your app to test how starter inputs work! To effectively implement starter inputs, you should:

  • Test your inputs in preview mode
  • Ensure they collect the right information
  • Check that required fields appear as intended

Enhance User Experience

Well-designed starter inputs can streamline interactions, collect necessary information upfront, and make your app more effective. They’re often essential for creating structured, purposeful conversations.

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Watch How to Add Starter Inputs

Watch a short video of how to add starter inputs to your Playlab app.

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Adding Starter Inputs Process

1

Access the Inputs Menu

Navigate to the Inputs section in your app editor.

  1. On the right-hand navigation menu, click the Inputs button
  2. This will open the starter inputs configuration panel
2

Add and Configure Inputs

Begin setting up your inputs.

  1. Click “Add Starter Input” to begin
  1. Select from the following input types:
  • Short Text: For brief responses like names or short answers
  • Long Text: For extended responses like descriptions or feedback
  • Dropdown: For selecting from predefined options
  • File Upload: For accepting files up to 5MB (images, PDFs, CSVs, etc.)

  1. Configure each input:

    • Add a clear, descriptive label
    • Decide whether the input should be required or optional
    • Add helpful placeholder text to guide users
    • For dropdowns, add at least two options

  2. Arrange inputs in a logical order

  3. Preview your app to test the inputs

3

Utilize Input Data in Your App

Make your app responsive to the information collected.

  1. Reference input data in your app’s instructions
  2. Update prompts to incorporate user-provided information
  3. Test different approaches to see how inputs enhance the user experience
  4. Refine your inputs based on testing results

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Starter Input Best Practices

When adding starter inputs to your Playlab app, keep these tips in mind:

  • Keep it focused - Only ask for information that’s essential for your app’s function
  • Use appropriate input types for different kinds of information:
    • Short text for names, simple responses
    • Long text for detailed feedback or descriptions
    • Dropdowns for categorized data or limited choices
    • File uploads when documents or images are needed
  • Make labels clear and specific so users understand exactly what information to provide
  • Use placeholder text to provide examples or clarification
  • Consider the user journey - arrange inputs in a logical sequence
  • Balance required vs. optional fields - too many required fields can be overwhelming
  • Test with different inputs to ensure your app handles all responses appropriately
  • Preview before publishing to experience your app from the user’s perspective

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Need Support?

If you encounter any issues while adding starter inputs:

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Last updated: March 21, 2025