Rhythm Research in Interactive System Design: A Literature Review

Abstract

Rhythm can create a sense of structure or order, making it easier for users to understand and navigate interactive systems, thereby making user engagement more enjoyable and motivating. Recently, designers are increasingly interested in integrating rhythm into the design of interactive systems. However, the existing literature on this topic is fragmented, making it difficult for designers to find comprehensive guidance. This paper presents the first literature review of rhythm research for designing an interactive system based on the PRISMA method. Through an analysis of 59 papers based on the critical review method (e.g., research through design), we identify six research genres and provide a map to help future researchers locate their research position. Because there is currently no clear classification framework to guide designers in integrating rhythm into interactive systems, we propose a classification framework that includes six design qualities: three human rhythm-driven qualities and three computer rhythm-driven qualities based on the literature review. This classification framework provides a foundation for designers to regulate rhythm in interactive systems. In addition, we discuss emerging issues related to rhythm genres and rhythm classification framework and design qualities. We reflect on the effectiveness of our proposed framework by revisiting previous works on designing interactive systems, and provide potential directions for future research in this area. Overall, this paper aims to provide comprehensive guidance for designers who wish to integrate rhythm into the design of interactive systems, and to advance the understanding of the role of rhythm in interactive system design.

Keywords:

• Literature review
• rhythm
• rhythm analysis
• interactive systems
• interaction design

Acknowledgments

The authors thank Prof. Hiroki Nishino for the valuable comments on this work. The authors also thank all members of the Center for Human-Engaged Computing (CHEC) at Kochi University of Technology for their support.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Peng Tan

Peng Tan is a PhD candidate at the Center for Human-Engaged Computing in the Kochi University of Technology, Japan. His work focus on research in HCI Design, rhythm in HCI, Human-Engaged Computing, synergized interactions, designing for mental health. The current project is approaching rhythm toward synergized interactions.

Xiangshi Ren

Xiangshi Ren is a lifetime tenured professor in the School of Information and founding director of the Center for Human-Engaged Computing (CHEC) at Kochi University of Technology, Japan. His research interests include all aspects of Human-Computer Interaction and Human-Engaged Computing (HEC).