“I wish I could use any language as it comes to mind”: User experience in digital platforms in the context of multilingual personal information management

Abstract

In today's linguistically diverse world, managing personal information across multiple languages presents a challenge. This study engaged 16 multilingual participants to explore their user experience in the context of multilingual personal information management (MPIM), with a focus on inclusivity, universality, and equity. Addressing two main questions, the study explores the challenges users face on digital platforms in MPIM contexts and their ideal platform features. Findings highlight key issues in MPIM platform design, including unsupported languages and integration of visual aesthetics. We also identify user preferences for ideal platform features, such as language flexibility and efficient information retrieval. The study suggests the need for more inclusive, universal, and equitable platform designs that cater to the specific requirements of multilingual users. Ultimately, this study underscores the critical need for improved MPIM support and emphasizes the significance of continued exploration in this area, establishing it as a vital field of future research.