Online Information-Seeking Behaviors

Source: Nielsen Norman Group Published: May 2020

Source: Nielsen Norman Group
Published: May 2020

Online Information-Seeking Behaviors

Circulated: June 22, 2020

User experience researchers identified three types of online information-seeking behaviors based on the user’s purpose:

1. Acquire: The user looks for a fact, finds product information, or downloads something.

Example: the steps to perform CPR.

2. Compare/Choose: The user evaluates multiple products or information sources to make a decision.

Example: comparing the prices and features of Bluetooth headsets.

3. Understand: The user gains an understanding of a topic.

Example: deciding to mount your wifi router higher up on the wall for stronger signal throughout your home.