The Use and Importance of Emotional Design in Contemporary Design Practice

Abstract

This thesis investigated emotional design concept. Products evoke emotions in people. This thesis suggests that emotions are at a basic importance for the success of a product since they influence product evaluation, purchase decision and product experience of users significantly. It is also claimed that, by the means of emotions, a higher user satisfaction, product longevity and a better product performance can be achieved, which will result in an enriched life.To provide an insight to emotional design concept, thesis investigated how products evoke emotions in people. Two recent design projects based on the traditions in emotion research were investigated in depth. Learning to Talk with Your Body project that is based on Jamesian tradition revealed that products could be designed to elicit predefined emotional responses in users. Emotionally Intelligent Alarm Clock project that is based on the cognitive tradition showed that it is possible to reach a higher user experience . thus an enriched life . through emotions. Aesthetics was considered as the most appropriate term encompassing the emotional attributes of products. Recent studies showed that, besides being appealing,aesthetic (attractive) products are perceived to perform better. Aesthetics generates a positive motivation for the user by contributing to the meaningfulness of the product.Thus aesthetics was accepted as a part of function. Roles of form, material and color in evoking emotions were investigated.Detailed observations about the emotional experiences of users with products and environment are fundamental necessities. Observing a user in a holistic structure, within a framework of a relational environment instead of evaluating user.s isolated performances in isolated activities will give a better understanding of user emotions.