Optimizing User Experience of Decentralized Applications for Web2 and Web3 Users - Case Anonymous Decentralized Social Platform
Loading...
URL
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
School of Science |
Master's thesis
Unless otherwise stated, all rights belong to the author. You may download, display and print this publication for Your own personal use. Commercial use is prohibited.
Authors
Date
Department
Major/Subject
Mcode
Degree programme
Language
en
Pages
145
Series
Abstract
The rapid evolution of decentralized applications (dApps) in the Web3 ecosystem poses unique challenges for user experience (UX), especially as Web2 users meet unfamiliar blockchain technologies. This paper investigates how the UX of dApps may be enhanced to cater to both Web2 and Web3 users, using Unirep Social Taiwan, a decentralized social network, as a case study. The main research issue is: How can the user experience of decentralized applications be adjusted to accommodate both Web2 and Web3 users? The study investigates user demands and obstacles in the transition to decentralized platforms, drawing on ideas such as the Technology Acceptance Model, Nielsen's usability heuristics, and ISO 9241-11 usability standards. The paper situates these issues within the larger framework of blockchain's transparency, data sovereignty, and user control principles. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research included two iterative rounds of usability testing involving seven participants per round. Quantitative metrics such as task success rates, completion times, and System Usability Scale (SUS) scores were analyzed alongside qualitative data gathered from think-aloud protocols and interviews. Iterative testing allowed for the evaluation of UX optimizations and their impact on user satisfaction. The results demonstrate a significant improvement in usability metrics between rounds. Task success rates increased from an average of 98% in Round 1 to 100% in Round 2, while SUS scores improved from an average of 62.14 to 70.36, reflecting enhanced user satisfaction. Qualitative insights revealed that simplified onboarding processes and transparent feedback mechanisms reduced cognitive load for Web2 users, while Web3 users appreciated improvements in transaction transparency and system control. The findings highlight the importance of bridging the gap between Web2 and Web3 user expectations through progressive onboarding, real-time feedback, and design strategies that balance usability with decentralization principles. These insights contribute to the growing field of UX research in Web3 by providing actionable recommendations for dApp developers. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to measure changing user behaviors and the inclusion of new Web3 technologies, such as zero-knowledge proofs, to improve the UX of decentralized platforms.Description
Supervisor
Nieminen, MarkoThesis advisor
Jeng, Ya-wenOther note
Attachment notes
Description:
Study Information and Consent Form
Attachments:
Thesis_Chien-Cheng-Hou_appendix1.pdf