Why do we love pushing buttons?

Well, there are lots of reasons — historically buttons were new technologies. Amazing to consider that ‘back in the day’ we had to learn how to use buttons but once we did there was no stopping us.

If we unpack the functionality behind the button of course we reveal that there’s always a motivation. An action, a call to action in the World Wide Web… that has an outcome. When the function is clear it’s like turning a light on, or closing the elevator door. We’re in control, we like being in control. We see the effect of our action. This basic functionality is clear and predictable (most of the time).

ACTION = REWARD

However, this changes somewhat when surfing the web or your favourite app.

The button can take us on a journey… especially if that button incentivises the user with a promise of showing you something exciting or valuable. Whether supporting your friend’s endeavours or applying a discount code, we are all sometimes far too quick to get involved; hit that button and read the small print/dodgy URL.

Herein lies the trick of those naughty phishing hackers who often wreak havoc with social platforms and fill our inboxes with spam. (My friend’s Instagram account was hacked recently, which is actually the catalyst for this post.) So clearly, we are all vulnerable to our judgment, or lack of it, in the throes of an uncaffeinated early morning.

So, I’ve decided to create a little experiment here for you to try.

The idea behind this leads to another engaging conversation about UX/UI button design, but we’ll open that can of worms we’ll open another time. It’s way more fun just pushing buttons, right?

Press a button

Or will you just play it safe and not press any?
And what will influence your decision?

Tempted?