Estrés Digital y Experiencia de Interacción: Análisis Comparativo de una Interfaz Basada en Scroll y una Interfaz Optimizada Mediante Principios UI/UX

Abstract

This research analyzes the influence of different web interface design strategies on interaction experience and factors associated with digital stress, based on a comparative study conducted at the Santo Tomás University, Tunja campus. Two prototypes of informational web interfaces were designed: a functional version based on continuous scrolling and a version optimized using UI/UX design principles with progressive interactivity. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, with a descriptive and comparative scope, grounded in a quasi-experimental design. Participants interacted with both interfaces, which were then evaluated through surveys, participant observation, and usability tests using a Likert scale.

The results showed an improvement in the dimensions of visual clarity and navigation and control for the optimized interface, facilitating information comprehension and orientation within the interface. However, the differences observed in the dimensions of cognitive load, frustration, and perceived digital stress were less favorable, suggesting that the incorporation of UI/UX principles improved aspects related to visual organization and navigation, but did not produce a proportional decrease in the perceived mental effort or frustration experienced by the participants. Consequently, it is concluded that UI/UX design decisions directly influence the interaction experience and constitute a relevant factor in reducing or intensifying factors associated with digital stress, providing evidence on the importance of user-centered design for promoting digital well-being in web interface development.