Have you ever found a five-minute web surf turns into a hour in front of the computer? Central Queensland University researcher Dr Steve Pace has spent the last five years exploring a state-of-mind psychologists have termed ‘flow’.

“My research has given me a better understanding of the nature of flow and helped me to identify factors that contribute to the flow experiences of web users,” he said.

“This information can potentially be used by web designers to make online experiences more engaging and enjoyable.

“The findings give designers some guidance about how to create sites that encourage flow experiences, or at least minimise obstacles that prevent the experience from occurring.

“Software designers have traditionally focused on making programs easier to use, particularly work-related programs. But the web is more than a work tool and web designers need to take a more holistic view of users and their concerns.

“Rather than focus solely on usability, we need to consider emotional responses such as enjoyment, frustration, discovery, surprise, curiosity and guilt.

Dr Pace said flow experiences were characterised by some common elements.

“People in flow become so absorbed in their activity, that they often lose track of time and temporarily forget about their surroundings and usual concerns. Activities that lead to flow require a complete focusing of attention on the task at hand, leaving no room in the mind for irrelevant thoughts or worries.

"Flow experiences also occur in other enjoyable activities such as playing games, participating in sport, performing music or working at a hobby."