Intermodal Improvement: Nudging Users to Use Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts have been proven to be the most efficient
method of issuing commands in computer software. Using the mouse in
graphical user interfaces provides an intuitive but slow method for executing
functions in a software. Many fail to make the transition to faster
modalities, such as keyboard shortcuts. This is not just the case for
novices, but also users with years of experience. This study examines the
research on this behavior, as well as how the concepts of nudging and ambient
suggestion can be used to actively encourage and support the usage
of keyboard shortcuts. Based on this research, a design is proposed and
implemented in a simple word processor application. A user experience
evaluation was done, by having participants perform writing and formatting
tasks inside the application. Using the Microsoft Reaction Card
Method followed by a semi-structured interview, the users elaborated on
their experience. In the interviews topics and questions of motivation,
distraction, and annoyance were raised. The results showed that most
participants found the system convenient and helpful in learning shortcuts
without being too obtrusive. There are promising first indications of
it having potential in promoting the usage of keyboard shortcuts, however
further research is required in order to make any generalizations.