User-Centered Dashboard Design - Leveraging Design Thinking and Game Design Principles for Improving User Engagement

Abstract

In this thesis, I explore the integration of design thinking and game design principles to enhance the functionality, user engagement, and accessibility of corporate dashboards. Amidst the backdrop of the rapid evolution of big data and advanced analytics, the need for effective data visualization tools has become paramount. I employ a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with dashboard developers and user testing of a dashboard prototype that incorporates gamification elements. The findings reveal that well-designed gamification can significantly increase user engagement and improve data interaction, although the effectiveness varies depending on user demographics and the specific context of the application. I propose a set of design guidelines and demonstrate through prototyping how these can be implemented to create more engaging and user-friendly dashboards. This study contributes to academic and practical knowledge in the fields of user experience (UX) design and business intelligence by showing how integrating elements typically found in games can address common usability challenges in dashboard design. I suggest avenues for further research, particularly in the areas of personalized user experiences and the scalability of gamification strategies across different corporate environments.