Human-computer interaction in consumer behaviour

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) studies play an important role in the design, implementation, and evaluation of a new generation of graphical user interfaces designed to support consumer behaviours and information needs. In recent years, the spread of new virtual environments and innovative tools have revolutionized the field of e-commerce. Although new digital environments can enable or facilitate certain user activities, the quality of the user interface will remain a continuing challenge. The chapter aims to underline the relationships between HCI studies and consumer behaviour, focusing attention on virtual environments for electronic and Internet e-commerce (online retail) services. The potential of multi-modal interfaces and virtual environments for business and marketing are examined by: (1) providing an overview of the relationships between HCI and consumer behaviour, (2) showing how different interaction modalities can enhance the communication process between user and consumer system, (3) showing how digital and interactive technologies can offer to the consumer many advantages and unique opportunities in exploring information and products, and (4) new directions for possible future research.