An Event Apart Boston 2010 talk introducing emotional interface design and the emotional usability principle - the link between human emotion and perceived usability - with practical techniques to make sites and apps more engaging.
People
Aarron Walter
Methods
Interaction DesignDesigning how people act with a product over time: controls, states, feedback, flows and micro-interactions. Turns goals and constraints into concrete behaviours that feel clear and forgiving, informed by perception, cognition and the physical or digital context of use.
Visual DesignShaping look and feel — typography, colour, layout, imagery — so hierarchy, meaning and emotion support usability and brand without fighting perception.
Usability TestingUsability testing reveals where people struggle while attempting realistic tasks with a prototype or service. In a moderated session, a researcher observes the participant and may ask them to explain their thinking. Use it to investigate confusing language, layouts or interactions and identify improvements. Agree research questions, recruit likely users and prepare believable tasks that do not reveal the solution. Explain that the service is being tested, then mostly watch and listen rather than guiding participants. Record observations and follow up on unclear behaviour. Plan accessible sessions, including participants’ own assistive technology when appropriate.