I've am pleased that my research Project for my university module is completed. My conclusion was as follows:
"My
research enquiry is: to what extent does interactive presentation of
information provide an enhanced user experience compared to online
static communication methods on the web? I have found out that
designing innovative but ambiguous interfaces can sometimes hinder
user experience because the interface is not what people are familiar
with. This can cause them to feel frustrated with the website.
However,
Norman Donald argues that people make judgements about a websites
emotively, so a first good impression would set them up to having a
positive attitude and tolerate minor usability problems. When a
website is designed well aesthetically, the website is more credible
and trustworthy because it makes users feel more comfortable and
relaxed. My artefact results show that unconventional interactive
interfaces can be more pleasurable to use than static websites.
On
the other hand, Dan Donald suggests that the static, conventional
website is more effective at communicating because it degrades onto
all devices perfectly. To an extent static websites are better
because they are more functional and accessible for users, especially
those on a mobile device.
From
UX perspective, it is important to identify the user’s needs and
create a website that meets the purpose of the website. A
non-interactive, static website can be more effective on functional
sites where users need to complete a process such as filling in tax
forms. Whereas, a website that is trying to persuade someone to buy a
holiday package may use large beautiful visuals in a slider to lure
the user into making emotive impulse decisions. (Rogers, Sharp,
Preece, 2013) On some websites, both of these approaches work. E.g.
a fashion retailer, where strong visual flair is used to advertise
the latest season products and a functional ecommerce system that is
designed to be functional. My overall conclusion is the interactive
presentation of information can be more suitable within some contexts
than others." -abstract
I shall be preparing for my final research presentation soon. :)