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Abstract
This paper describes the use of a quantitative experimental method for assessing perceptual responses to design. It investigates the role of prototypicality in the perception of design character and formulation of product preference. Evidence from a study involving kettles suggests consumers are capable of identifying varying degrees of prototypicality and that the perception of prototypicality is derived from both form and product features. Although no significant correlation between the keyword ‘preferred product’ and ‘prototypical’ is found there is some evidence to suggest that prototypical products are preferred over non-prototypical products. Significantly, presented findings suggest that prototypes are more than just mental pictures of category exemplars; they also carry semantic content which informs the perception of design character.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Shane Crothers
Shane Crothers is a Research Assistant in the School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering at the University of Ulster. He is currently using an empirical method for assessing design character to conduct an investigation into design perception.
Ian Montgomery
Dr Ian Montgomery is Research Co-ordinator for the School of Art and Design at the University of Ulster. He has research interests in design management and the appropriateness of design.
Robin Clarke
Dr Robin Clarke is Head of the School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering at the University of Ulster and has research interests in product design/development and engineering design education.