ABSTRACT

The ubiquitous nature of mobile and web applications has transformed how we interact with the world. However, a hidden challenge lurks within the seemingly universal interface – a design bias towards US user preferences. This paper investigates the experiences of Chinese immigrants navigating these US-centric UX designs, exploring the friction points that arise due to cultural and linguistic differences.

While the foreign-born population in the US continues to grow, with Chinese immigrants representing a significant demographic, their specific needs are often overlooked. This paper examines the challenges they face, including language barriers, encountering design elements based on unfamiliar cultural assumptions, and navigating information densities that differ from their preferred interfaces.

Despite these obstacles, Chinese immigrants demonstrate remarkable adaptability. However, the paper argues for the importance of user-centered design principles that cater to this growing demographic. By acknowledging the limitations of US-centric UX design, the paper calls for further research. It emphasizes the value of primary research methods like contextual inquiries and usability testing to gain a deeper understanding of user experiences. Through this in-depth exploration of coping mechanisms and frustrations, researchers can inform the development of more inclusive UX design solutions, fostering a smoother digital experience for all.

INTRODUCTION

The rapid rise of mobile and web applications has transformed how we interact with the world. However, a hidden challenge lies within this ubiquitous technology – the user experience (UX) design. Often centered on US-based user preferences, these interfaces might not fully accommodate the needs of Asian immigrant populations. This paper explores the adoption of mobile and web applications by Chinese immigrants, investigating the potential friction points arising from a US-centric UX design. As of 2023, the foreign-born population in the US is estimated to be 44.8 million [1], accounting for 13.7% of the total population. While the USA population is largely considered individualistic in nature, but the considerable amount of immigrant population co-exists which is inclined towards collectivism. Through this research I would like to investigate how the immigrant population adapts the unique design language they are not familiar with and the challenges they face.

Figure 1. Example for differences between US & Chinese Starbucks User interface.

Chinese immigrant population in the US:

Chinese immigrants represent a significant and growing demographic within the United States. Understanding their technology usage habits, professions, basic needs, and the pain points they encounter with mobile application UX design is crucial for creating inclusive and successful products. Like the general US population, Chinese immigrants heavily rely on smartphones for daily tasks. However, their usage patterns might differ. Social media platforms like WeChat, which integrate messaging, payments, and news, are often preferred over separate apps.

While some immigrants adopt English for mobile interactions, a significant portion prefer access to applications in Mandarin Chinese. This includes a need for accurate translations that consider cultural context. Chinese immigrants hold a wide range of professions, from blue-collar jobs in manufacturing and construction to entrepreneurs and professionals in tech and healthcare. A significant portion of the Chinese immigrant population may have LEP, impacting their ability to navigate complex English-language applications.

Basic Needs

Staying connected with family and friends in China is a primary need. Mobile apps that facilitate messaging, video calls, and international money transfer are essential. Access to culturally relevant news, government services, and translation tools is crucial for navigating daily life in the US. Mobile banking and payment options that cater to their financial habits and integrate with Chinese financial systems are important.

Inconsistent or poorly translated interfaces create confusion and frustration. Design elements or workflows based on US cultural norms might be unfamiliar or even offensive to Chinese users. For example, color schemes with symbolic meaning in Chinese culture could be misinterpreted. Lack of features like text magnification or voice control can hinder usage for older adults or those with visual impairments. Inability to use familiar Chinese payment methods can create a barrier to adopting new mobile apps.

To ensure successful integration into American society, Chinese immigrants in the US require mobile apps and interfaces that prioritize easy translation. Language barriers can pose significant challenges in accessing essential services and information. A study by the National Center for Asian American Statistics found that nearly 60% of Chinese immigrants have limited English proficiency. By incorporating features like on-demand machine translation or the ability to switch between Mandarin Chinese and English seamlessly, developers can create a more inclusive user experience. This empowers Chinese immigrants to navigate daily tasks and actively participate in the digital landscape.

The Distinctive Landscape of Chinese UX Design

The Chinese writing system, composed of complex characters (Hanzi), allows for denser information presentation on screens compared to alphabetic languages. This enables interfaces to display more information upfront without feeling cluttered. Chinese UX design emphasizes clear navigation structures and readily visible icons to facilitate browsing and information discovery. Chinese interfaces leverage familiar icons and colors that resonate with cultural understanding. For instance, the color red might symbolize good luck or celebration, while white might represent mourning.

Figure 2. Example for Logographic and Alphabetic system.

Popular Chinese apps often function as "super apps," integrating various functionalities like messaging, payments, and social media within a single platform. This focus on social interaction and seamless integration differs from the US model where separate apps might be used for each function, user preferences in China and the US regarding super apps. Chinese communication can be more implicit, relying on context and shared cultural understanding. This can influence UX design to prioritize visual cues and intuitive workflows that require less explicit instructions compared to US interfaces.

Figure 3. Chinese travel app “Ctrip” home screen interface (google lens translated version on the right for reference).

Figure 4. US based travel app home screens showing the contrast, TripAdvisor (Left) Expedia (Right).

It is evident from the figures 3 and figure 4 the obvious contrast in the design language, through information density, color scheme and the scope of functionality of the applications. While the US based applications use minimalist designs with muted colors the Chinese based application uses densely packed UI with vibrant colors due to the cultural and contextual influence on the user experience. Weiwei Li, a Singapore based experience designer in her article explores why Western and Chinese apps look and function so differently. It boils down to culture and how people use the internet. It is evident that western apps are known for being simple and to the point, while Chinese apps tend to be more visually stimulating and jam-packed with features, but the article doesn't consider things like generational preferences or how design trends themselves keep changing.

Cultural Crossroads: Hofstede and the Shaping of User Interfaces

The way phone apps look, and work can vary a lot around the world. This isn't random - it has to do with the cultures of the people who design them! Think of it like different countries having different styles of clothing. In this case, the "clothing" is the design of the app. Geert Hofstede's framework of cultural dimensions provides a valuable lens for understanding this interplay. Cultures with high Power Distance, where hierarchy and authority are respected, might favor UIs with clear information hierarchies. This can be seen in some traditional Chinese interfaces where prominent design elements guide users towards specific actions, reflecting a respect for established structures. Individualistic cultures tend towards UIs that prioritize user autonomy. Collectivistic cultures, on the other hand, might value features that facilitate social interaction. This is evident in the popularity of "super apps" in China, which integrate diverse functionalities like messaging and social media, fostering a sense of interconnectedness within the platform.

Chinese Immigrants and US-Centric UX Design

While Chinese immigrants navigate US-centric interfaces, they face various challenges. Language Barriers, Cultural Assumptions, Information Density, Super App vs. Separate Apps. Chinese immigrants might rely on family members or friends with better English skills, utilize translation tools, or seek out applications with Mandarin Chinese support to fight the language barriers, they might also gravitate towards applications with a more universal design language. US interfaces might display less information compared to their Chinese counterparts due to alphabetical language differences. Chinese users might find these interfaces cluttered or lacking necessary details.

Inclusive UX design considerations can ease the adaptation process for Chinese immigrants. Offering interfaces in Mandarin Chinese with accurate, culturally sensitive translations is crucial. Utilizing clear visual cues, intuitive navigation structures, and internationalized icons can bridge cultural gaps. Chinese immigrants exhibit remarkable adaptability in adopting US-centric UX design. However, addressing the challenges they face through language support, culturally sensitive design, and accessibility features is crucial for creating a more inclusive digital landscape.

Future Work

While this paper explores the challenges faced by Chinese immigrants adapting to US-centric UX design, there's a need to delve deeper into understanding their specific coping mechanisms and frustrations. Current knowledge offers valuable insights, but real-world experiences can be nuanced and unexpected. Primary research allows us to observe Chinese immigrants interacting with these interfaces firsthand, revealing their true adoption strategies and pain points. Surveys and interviews might miss subtle frustrations or workarounds users have developed.

Techniques like contextual inquiries, where researchers observe users in their natural environment, can uncover these unspoken needs and coping mechanisms. The AEIOU framework (Activities, Environments, Interactions, Objects, and Users) during observations provides a structured approach to gathering rich user data. By focusing on these elements, researchers can gain a holistic understanding of how Chinese immigrants use mobile and web applications in their daily lives. Usability testing with real users allows researchers to identify specific design flaws that hinder Chinese immigrant’s user experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, adapting to US-centric UX design presents significant challenges for Chinese immigrants. Language barriers, cultural assumptions in interfaces, and information density can all lead to frustration. In contrast, Chinese UX design prioritizes clear information structures, familiar icons, and functionalities like super apps. To bridge this gap and create a more inclusive digital landscape, applications should prioritize Mandarin language support, culturally sensitive design elements, and accessibility features. This research not only provides insights into the user preferences of Chinese population but also introduces the often-ignored need for mobile applications to be inclusive and accessible for diverse populations in countries like the US. Further research through observing user interactions can provide deeper insights into the specific needs of Chinese immigrants, paving the way for developing effective solutions and ensuring a smoother digital experience for this growing demographic.

Acknowledgements

I This paper would not have been possible without the support and guidance of Prof. Adam Steele, my peer review partner Vinnie and writing center at DePaul for their constant constructive feedback and support. Finally, I am grateful to my family and friends for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout my academic journey.

References

[1] Bennett, Audrey & Diodato, Sarah & Gaetano, Angelo. (2007). The Heuristic Evaluation of a Culturally Specific Graphic For Cross Cultural Communication.

[2] Chen, M. (2018). Cultural Color Symbolism in Chinese User Interface Design. International Journal of Design Creativity and Innovation, 7(2), 123-132.

[3] Chu, S. (2016). Design factors affect user experience for different cultural populations. Journal of Educational Issues, 2(2), 307. https://doi.org/10.5296/jei.v2i2.10217

[4] Hofstede, G. Jan., Pedersen, P., & Hofstede, G. (2002). Exploring culture: exercises, stories, and synthetic cultures / Gert Jan Hofstede, Paul B. Pedersen, Geert H. Hofstede. Intercultural Press.

[5] Li, H., & Xu, J. (2018). The Role of Cultural Context in User Interface Design. International Journal of Human-Computer Studies, 117, 124-134.

[6] Liu, Y., Sun, C., & Zhang, J. (2019). The Influence of Cultural Background on User Interface Design: A Case Study of Information Density Preference in China. International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction, 35(12), 1132-1143.

[7] National Center for Asian American Statistics, "National Asian American and Pacific Islander Month: A Look at Data on Asian Americans and Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander Populations" (2023), https://www.census.gov/newsroom/facts-for features/2023/asian-american-pacific-islander.html

[8] Nielsen, J. (2021, March 4). International usability: Big stuff the same, details differ. Nielsen Norman Group. https://www.nngroup.com/articles/international-usability-details-differ/

[9] Ng, M. (2022, March 5). A few UI differences between Chinese and English apps. Medium. https://uxdesign.cc/a-few-ui-differences-between-chinese-and-english-apps-e72400bb08da.

[10] Paschalis, P. (2014, April 22). Challenges facing digital immigrants in designing user interfaces for digital natives. Academia.edu.

[11] Schaefer, K., About The AuthorKendra Schaefer has been living predominantly in China since 2002. A former front-end designer and art director, & Author, A. T. (2015b, February 13). On China’s bleeding edge: Web design trends 2015. Smashing Magazine. https://www.smashingmagazine.com/2015/02/china-web-design-trends-2015/

[12] Sun, Y., Wang, Y., & Zhang, J. (2019). A Comparative Study of User Preferences for Super Apps in China and the United States. Information Systems Frontiers, 21(5), 1221-1234.

[13] The UX Design & UI Design of Chinese and western apps: Why are they so different?. PALO IT Blog. (n.d.). https://blog.palo-it.com/en/the-ux-design-of-chinese-and-western-apps-why-are-they-so-different.

[14] Zhang, Y., Sun, L., & Wang, X. (2020). User Navigation Behavior in Mobile Apps: A Comparative Study of China and the United States. Journal of Global Information Management, 28(4), 78-93.