This study explored how cognitive psychology can help provide a solution to the growing problem of cognitive load in society, and the necessary rest in the home environment. The project focused on the design of everyday products and how to reduce the cognitive load in the home environment. Through the use of surveys, interviews, workshops, probes, and user tests, the study aimed to answer the question of how cognitive load can be reduced through product design. With the theoretical framework of cognitive load, intuitive design, and use, user-centered design, affordance theory, and tangible interaction, the study then resulted in the implementation in a product series named “Mono”.
Project 05
mono
Subject
BSc project
User-centered design
Cognition theory
Year
2020
Idea
In a world where the digitalization of everyday products and technology has become the norm, the cognitive load placed on users has drastically increased. This can lead to frustration and confusion when trying to use products and can even lead to safety risks in certain situations. This bachelor project aimed to create a solution to this growing problem. By combining the principles of cognitive psychology and design, the project sought to reduce the cognitive load through products that are intuitive and easy to use.
Process
An interdisciplinary approach was taken, combining research into cognitive load theory, intuitive design, user-centered design, and tangible interaction. Through surveys, interviews, workshops, probes, and user tests, I identified products with a high cognitive load, which was used for further study. The user tests for this project were essential for the development of the product series. Through the use of user testing, I was able to gain valuable insights into how the product should be designed and what features should be included.
The user tests also allowed me to observe the user’s reactions to the product and to identify any areas of improvement. The user tests also enabled me to develop a product that was tailored to the needs of the users and was well-received by them. Furthermore, I was able to explore the potential of sensorimotor interaction through the user tests. By observing how users interacted with the products, I was able to identify areas where sensorimotor interaction could be used to enhance the user experience. This provided me with a better understanding of how to design a product that was intuitive and easy to use.
Final Concept
Mono is the proposal of an embodiment of the new way of thinking about product design and user experience. The use of cognitive psychology, intuitive design, user-centered design, and tangible interaction has allowed for the creation of a product series that is tailored to the needs of the user, while also reducing the cognitive load through effective design. Through the use of user testing and feedback, the team was able to create a product that was well-received by the users and provided a unique experience. This project demonstrates the power of an interdisciplinary approach to product design, and the potential for cognitive psychology and design to create a product that is both intuitive and user-friendly.
