The effects of Ajax web technologies on user expectations: a workflow approach

by Disabato, Nicholas J.

This paper aims to define users’ information expectations as web technologies continue to improve in loading time and uninterrupted interface interactivity. Do web technologies like Ajax – or, more abstractly, a quicker fulfilling of user needs – change these needs, or do they merely fulfill preexisting expectations?

Users navigated through a mock e-commerce site where each page that loads has a 50% chance of implementing Ajax technology, from functions of the shopping cart to expanding categories of products. Users were observed through eye tracking and measuring their pulse and respiratory effort. Questionnaires were administered before and after these tasks to assess their thoughts about the study.

Qualitative and quantitative observation found users almost unanimously favored the Ajax functions over the non-Ajax. Users emphasized the usability concerns of switching to Ajax, especially concerning feedback.