I think all those “How to Mastodon” articles are going about it all wrong. They start by explaining federation and talking about how to choose a server. Yes that’s the first step but it’s also where we lose people. Just put that aside. Start by talking about how you use Mastodon, all the great apps, the culture, etc. Then end with the first step, that “all you have to do is pick a server to get started” and explain how. You have to hook a fish before you can reel it in.
I think we agree the onboarding (or even pre-onboarding) process is all important, hence I am tagging Kevin in to this. I am sure between everyone concerned with this that we can perhaps come up with something to help people. I think the important thing is to listen and take on board what people are telling us and formulate solutions that are helpful, but are also specific to the fediverse and the way it works.
Would be good to get the Good Things Foundation or similar groups on board with this too.
