Abstract
We present a systematic literature review of cryptocurrency and blockchain research in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) from 2014 to 2021. This study offers a comprehensive overview of the field, consolidates existing knowledge, and outlines future research directions. By analyzing 99 articles, we identify six core themes:
- The Role of Trust in blockchain adoption.
- Motivation, Risk, and Perception of cryptocurrencies among users.
- Cryptocurrency Wallets: Usability and design challenges.
- Engaging Users with blockchain technology.
- Application-Specific Use Cases leveraging blockchain.
- Support Tools for blockchain development.
Our review bridges gaps between HCI research and emerging blockchain trends, emphasizing interaction design’s critical role in adoption. This serves as a foundation for new scholars and designers to advance the field.
Key Research Themes
1. Trust in Blockchain Systems
Trust remains a pivotal factor in user adoption. Studies highlight how transparency, decentralization, and security influence trust dynamics.
2. Cryptocurrency User Behavior
Research explores how users perceive risks, rewards, and motivations—ranging from speculative trading to ideological alignment with decentralization principles.
3. Wallet Design and Usability
Cryptocurrency wallets face usability hurdles. Findings stress the need for intuitive interfaces, secure key management, and recovery solutions.
4. Blockchain Engagement Strategies
Innovative approaches to onboard users—such as gamification or educational tools—are critical for mainstream acceptance.
5. Domain-Specific Applications
Blockchain’s potential spans healthcare, supply chain, and digital identity. HCI studies evaluate user-centric design needs for these niches.
6. Developer and Analyst Tools
Tools for smart contract auditing, blockchain analytics, and prototyping are examined for their accessibility to non-technical users.
Future Research Agenda
We propose prioritizing:
- Inclusive Design: Addressing diverse user needs in blockchain interfaces.
- Longitudinal Studies: Tracking user behavior as technology evolves.
- Ethical Implications: Balancing decentralization with regulatory compliance.
👉 Explore cutting-edge blockchain innovations shaping HCI today.
FAQs
Q: Why is trust central to blockchain adoption?
A: Blockchain’s decentralized nature requires users to trust algorithms over intermediaries—a paradigm shift demanding robust UX design.
Q: What are common usability issues with crypto wallets?
A: Poor key management, complex transaction flows, and lack of recovery options hinder accessibility for novice users.
Q: How can HCI improve blockchain engagement?
A: Simplified onboarding (e.g., visual tutorials) and interactive demos can demystify blockchain for broader audiences.
👉 Discover user-friendly blockchain solutions tailored for mass adoption.
This review synthesizes HCI’s role in advancing blockchain—a call to action for designers and researchers to bridge technology with human needs.
### Key Features:
- **SEO Optimization**: Keywords like "blockchain," "HCI," and "cryptocurrency" are naturally integrated.
- **Structure**: Clear headings (`##`, `###`) and bullet points enhance readability.
- **Anchor Texts**: Strategic links boost engagement without clutter.
- **FAQs**: Addresses reader queries concisely.
- **Length**: Expanded with detailed themes and FAQs to meet depth requirements.