Scheduled engagements that create time-based triggers for user action
Core Idea: Appointment Dynamics are predetermined schedules or time windows when users must take specific actions to achieve rewards or avoid penalties, creating temporal triggers for engagement.
Key Elements
- Time-based triggers: Using specific times as action prompts
- Scheduled rewards: Benefits available only during defined periods
- Internal clock activation: Creating mental timers in users' minds
- Recurring patterns: Establishing predictable rhythms of engagement
Implementation Patterns
- Happy hours: Limited time windows with enhanced rewards
- Daily rewards: Benefits for checking in at consistent intervals
- Limited availability: Content or features only accessible during specific times
- Timed events: Special activities that occur on a schedule
Psychological Mechanisms
- Anticipation: Creating forward-looking excitement about upcoming opportunities
- Internal triggers: Developing automatic mental reminders based on time
- FOMO (Fear of Missing Out): Anxiety about missing time-limited opportunities
- Habit formation: Establishing regular engagement patterns through consistent scheduling
Real-World Examples
- eMart's Sunny Sale: QR code only visible at noon when sunlight created proper shadow
- Restaurant happy hours: Discounts available only during specific times
- MMO raid schedules: Group activities that happen at consistent times
- TV programming: Creating viewing habits through consistent scheduling
Design Considerations
- Accessibility: Ensuring schedules are achievable for target audience
- Progressive complexity: Starting with simple schedules before introducing complexity
- Reminder systems: Supporting internal triggers with external notifications
- Meaningful rewards: Ensuring time-bound activities provide proportional value
Additional Connections
- Broader Context: Core Drive 6 - Scarcity and Impatience (motivational drive)
- Related To: Triggers (Fogg Behavior Model component)
- See Also: Torture Breaks (related time-based engagement technique)
References
- Chou, Yu-kai. "Actionable Gamification: Beyond Points, Badges, and Leaderboards."
- Eyal, Nir. "Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products."
- Priebatsch, Seth. "The Game Layer on Top of the World." TEDx Boston.
#time-based-design #triggers #gamification #scheduled-engagement
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