Shape of progress bar effect on subjective evaluation, duration perception and physiological reaction

Abstract Progress indicators act as a status indicator for the visual response process, which in turn has a significant impact on human-computer interaction. We often see ring type and bar type progress indicators in our daily life, but how does one choose the appropriately shaped design? This study uses two experiments to answer the above question, with the aim of maximizing the quality of the user experience. Thirty-six participants were asked to estimate the duration and to evaluate their preferences. The physiological data were collected in real time. The results show that shape affects women's preferences and speed perception for progress indicators. Under the condition of a long waiting time, the waiting experience is better when using the ring type design for all subjects. The quality of the user experience increased when using a progress indicator design that included percentage of task completion. In addition, we provide a reference for the user-friendliness design of progress indicators.