What makes it persuasive?

Abstract

Based on an analysis of two wearable activity trackers, this papers seeks to contribute to the discussion of characteristics of persuasive design, by arguing that although principles commonly applied in persuasive technologies are present, it may not justify that a technology is defined as persuasive. We refer to the rhetorical concept of peithenanke, in order to explain the subtle nuances of different types of behaviour design, and support previously made arguments that transparency and ethics are fundamental qualities of persuasion, which should not be overlooked neither in theory nor in practice.