The Perception of Waiting Time in Digital Applications: A Comparative Study of Loading Strategies

• André Roberto Simões F. Costa Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais (PUC Minas) http://orcid.org/0009-0002-1431-4695
• Felipe de Castro Belém Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais (PUC Minas) https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6037-5977

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5753/ihc_estendido.2025.13255

Abstract

Introduction: Time perception during loading is subjective and influenced by the type of visual feedback provided to users. Objective: This study compares six loading techniques in web applications to identify which provides the best perception of speed to users. Methodology: 21 participants were randomly exposed to six loading techniques (blank page, skeleton, spinner, progress bar, skeleton+spinner, skeleton+progress bar) with a fxed time of 5 seconds. Data was collected through structured forms evaluating temporal perception using a 5-point scale. Results: Skeleton screens provided the best perception with 48% classifying as fast (1-3s), while blank pages had the worst perception with 52.4% classifying as slow/very slow, despite identical real loading times. Cyclic techniques outperformed determinate ones, and combining techniques did not improve perception.

Keywords: Perception of waiting time, loading time, digital applications, user experience, loading strategies, performance optimization, user interface, visual feedback, usability

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