User Interface for Nudges: Development of Nudge Patterns Library and Nudge Components Library

Abstract

This thesis explores how digital nudging can be systematically represented and implemented in user interfaces through design and development resources. Nudging refers to practice of subtly guiding individuals toward desired actions without restricting their freedom of choice. In digital contexts, it relies on user interface (UI) elements to influence behavior. Despite increasing interest, the practical adoption of digital nudging remains limited due to a lack of structured documentation and reusable technical solutions.

To address these challenges, this research proposes two core artifacts: nudge patterns, which document nudges in a structured format, and nudge UI components, which implement nudge patterns as reusable interface elements. These are compiled into the Nudge Patterns Library and the Nudge Components Library, respectively. The development follows the Design Science Research Methodology (DSRM), supported by an abductive reasoning approach that synthesizes literature on nudging, academic research, and observational analysis of real-world applications.

A systematic review of academic research identified 42 nudges, while an observational study of widely used applications uncovered 9 novel, undocumented nudges. After ethical and technical evaluation, 7 nudges were selected for formalization and implementation. Each was translated into a structured nudge pattern and a corresponding React-based nudge UI component. The components were packaged into an open-source npm library and integrated into a web-based documentation platform built with Next.js.

This work bridges the gap between nudging and practical user interface design and development by providing ethically sound, technically feasible, and adaptable resources for representing and implementing nudges in real-world applications.