Evidence review of Online Choice Architecture and consumer and competition harm 2022 (CMA)

A research paper from the CMA

• From: Competition and Markets Authority
• Published: 2 September 2022

• Category: Ad hoc research
• Original publisher: Competition and Markets Authority
• Research area: Future connectivity and internet, Retail and digital commerce
• Research topic: Digital economy, General and vertical search, Online retail, Safety and harms
• Research publish date: 5 May 2022

Abstract

This is a companion paper, which provides underpinning evidence to support the CMA publication, Online Choice Architecture: how digital design can harm competition and consumers.

Online choice architecture (OCA) describes the environment in which users act and can make decisions, including the presentation and placement of choices and the design of interfaces. OCA is often used positively to help consumers, for example, by displaying relevant products prominently and to streamline friction.

Competition and consumer authorities necessarily need to identify and address detriment, so this paper focuses on the harms that can arise from OCA practices.

Citation

CMA, Evidence review of Online Choice Architecture and consumer and competition harm (2022) [online] Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/online-choice-architecture-how-digital-design-can-harm-competition-and-consumers/evidence-review-of-online-choice-architecture-and-consumer-and-competition-harm [Accessed on 1 September 2022].

Link

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/online-choice-architecture-how-digital-design-can-harm-competition-and-consumers/evidence-review-of-online-choice-architecture-and-consumer-and-competition-harm

Published 2 September 2022