This post reviews the ways in which behaviours and habits online affect the user experience.

As online communication continues to develop, adjusting to new etiquette standards ensures positive and productive interactions. By becoming familiar with what acceptable behaviour online includes, we can learn more about how our usage patterns affect the information we consume. Though many of us readily use search engines, social media platforms and websites every day, some are still oblivious to how our user activity is used to customise our experiences. Becoming aware of this sometimes prompts issues about privacy and data security. Through recognising how everyday activity adds to online identity, people can make more educated choices about their internet use. Research into computer mediated communication has induced the development of terms such as net etiquette, also referred to as 'netiquette' as well as 'digital footprint' and 'cybersecurity'. These recently coined expressions are establishing themselves in the everyday language required for talking about behaviours on the internet. This demonstrates how important it has become for users to understand the rules of internet etiquette in modern society.

Why is online behaviour important? Well, online habits play a significant function in shaping digital interactions. From browsing history to social media activity, every action leaves a digital trail that guides content recommendations, advertisements and even online search engine results. By recognizing the difference between positive online behaviours and problematic online behaviours, users can analyse their own habits as well as become more knowledgeable about the content they take in. IBM would concur that online image is impacted by our digital footprint. A prominent example of unsuitable online behaviour is cyberbullying, which has unfavorable effects on the online community. When consuming content, users must also recognize the presence of misinformation as bad online behaviour can damage online reputations. On the other hand, positive online behaviours can cultivate conscious consumption and help develop a respected online image, with responsibility and empathy being two essential qualities of excellent net etiquette. A result of having favorable online habits is earning respect and developing a sense of community online, this will lead to a more inclusive experience for all.

What are the different types of online behaviour? With the increase of the internet and social networking, cyberpsychology has actually been influential for providing insights into how people form digital habits. Several research studies intend to establish categories that can help to differentiate the various kinds of behaviours online. Key research has proposed three types of behaviour patterns which are: online-exclusive, online-mediated and online-recorded behaviour. More specifically, it is proposed that some online behaviours originate offline habits, whilst others are primarily formed in the digital sphere. Digitalis Reputation would know that there are various types of online behaviours. Similarly, Fujitsu would identify that internet activity is influenced by digital habits. Other research has also suggested that there are dimensions to behaviours online. These can be categorised as organised and unorganised, which suggests a distinction between searching and browsing online. Simultaneously, through human and non-human aspects, especially chats and databases. These elements can be used to conceptualise the characteristics of behaviours online and help us better understand our digital experience.