An Investigation into Usability and Universal Design of Website Cookie Settings Interfaces.

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to investigate the usability and universal design of cookie interfaces. Considering increasing concerns about online privacy and data protection, this study aims to identify the primary usability challenges users face and propose design improvements to make these interfaces more user-friendly and accessible. The research focuses on bridging the gap between regulatory requirements and actual user experiences, ensuring that cookie consent interfaces not only comply with legal standards but also empower users to make informed decisions about their privacy. This study focused on analysing ten prototype cookie consent interfaces using a qualitative evaluative investigation, complemented by quantitative data. The study involved 20 participants from diverse backgrounds, though it did not include elderly individuals or people with disabilities. Ten different prototypes were created using Axure RP10 to investigate various design features and elements. Participants engaged with these prototypes through six tasks designed to simulate common user interactions, such as rejecting cookies and customising settings. Data collection methods included participant observations, semi-structured interviews, and Likert-scale questionnaires. The study discovered significant usability challenges, including the lack of clear opt-out options, limited customisation features, and complex technical language that hindered user understanding. Prototypes often employ dark patterns to manipulate user choices, reducing transparency and user control. The findings highlight the need for cookie consent interfaces to improve usability and transparency, ensuring they align with universal design principles to cater to a broader range of user abilities and preferences. The conclusions emphasise the need for cookie consent interfaces to adopt universal design principles, ensuring accessibility and simplicity. The study suggests improving the visibility and usability of opt-out options, standardising customisation features, reducing interface complexity, and presenting cookie information in a clear, non-technical manner.