Searchbots.net : the influence of a narrative interface on the motivational levels of user contribution to an open content search engine : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Masters of Design, Institute of Communication Design, College of Creative Arts, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand

Abstract

This study sets out to explore and test the application of narrative and personification to the interface design and user experience of a search engine. The motivational and collaborative aspects of a search agent narrative will be examined and tested as a technique for increasing the volume and quality of data submitted to an open-content search engine by its users.