Abstract :
Recent research highlights the potential relevance of
emotions in interface design. People can no longer be
modeled as purely goal-driven, task-solving agents:
They also have affective motivations for their choices
and behavior implying an extended mandate for search
design. Absent from current Web design practice,
however, is a pattern for emotive criticism and design
reflecting these new directions. Further, discussion of
emotions and Web design is not limited to visual design
or aesthetic appeal: Emotions users have as they interact
with information also have design implications. The
author outlines a framework for understanding users’
emotional states as they seek information on the Web. It
is inspired largely by Carol Kuhlthau’s (1991, 1993, 1999)
work in library services, particularly her information
searching process (ISP), which is adapted to Web design
practice. A staged approach resembling traditional
models of information seeking behavior is presented
here as the basis for creating appropriate search and
navigation systems. This user-centered framework is
flexible and solution-oriented, enjoys longevity, and
considers affective factors. Its aim is a more comprehensive,
conceptual analysis of the user’s entire information
search experience.
