Navigating the Third Dimension on the Web : User Experience of navigation models in three-dimensional non-immersive e-commerce showroom websites

Abstract: With the increasing prevalence of websites that incorporate a third dimension into the scene, it is important to evaluate the usability of these virtual environments. This research contributes to existing knowledge of 3D navigation by exploring and evaluating the user experience of three navigation systems commonly used on three- dimensional websites: General Movement (Exploration), Targeted Movement (Search), and Specified Trajectory Movement. The study uses a within-subjects design, with a test audience consisting of 13 participants. Data was collected using observation and eye-tracking on sample websites representing each navigation technique, followed by a questionnaire. As this study distinguishes the two key aspects of user experience in pragmatic and hedonic values, results indicate that the new forms of website navigation are high in hedonic potential while varying in pragmatic usability. The results indicate that General Movement and Targeted Movement have an overall positive impact on user experience, as they are easy to understand and use. However, Specified Trajectory Movement is found to provide a poor user experience due to the lack of control over movement, resulting in frustration.