Nudge is a technique to lead people to take action that will result in a positive outcome. It’s generally something that people don’t do even though it’s good for them.
Universal Design Principles and Nudge (Thaler and Sunstein)) provide the methods for effective nudges: Defaults, Feedback, Incentives, Structured Choices, and Visible Goals.
People generally need nudges when there are difficult choices between benefits now and benefits later. For instance, people struggle to save for their retirement like using a 401k plan because it takes away access to their money. Companies often use a default contribution percentage to get employees to add to their 401k plan.
The example from Universal Design Principles is a fly graphic on a urinal. The fly acts as a target, reducing splash.
Example found online: These stairs in Japan encouraging people to use the stairs because it burns calories.
Example found in the real world: A sign encouraging dinners to eat vegan to save the planet.
@Jeff The Apple Watch can be a great tool for nudge because it’s with you most of the time. Timeliness can make nudge more effective. I’m curious if you get annoyed by the nudges? Are you able to dismiss the nudges or set the notifications?
Great examples, Davidson.
Some of my favorite products all seem to have incorporated “nudges” into their design. An example would be Apple Watch, it constantly reminds me to stand, exercise, a provide me with useful insights regarding my sleep and activities patterns. Every time I get one these little bite-sized messages, it “nudges” me to do something to improve my overall health!