How does design change your perception: A short overview.
Design is a powerful tool that can change the way we perceive the world around us. From the shape and colour of a product to the layout of a website, design influences our decisions, emotions, and attitudes. In this article, we’ll explore how design affects our perception and why it’s important to consider design when creating anything that will be seen by others.
Visual Appeal
The first thing that comes to mind when we think of design is visual appeal. We are naturally drawn to beautiful and well-crafted designs, and we tend to associate these designs with quality and value. For example, imagine two identical products that differ only in their packaging. One is plain and unadorned, while the other is colorful and eye-catching. Which product would you be more likely to purchase? Chances are, you would choose the one with the more attractive design.
Emotional Response
Design can also elicit an emotional response. Colors, shapes, and typography all have the power to evoke feelings and moods. For example, warm colors like red and yellow are associated with energy and excitement, while cool colors like blue and green are associated with calm and relaxation. Similarly, rounded shapes can be perceived as friendly and approachable, while angular shapes can be perceived as aggressive and intimidating. By understanding how design elements can affect our emotions, designers can create experiences that are tailored to specific audiences.
Brand Identity
Design plays a crucial role in building brand identity. A well-designed logo, website, or product can communicate a brand’s values, personality, and positioning. For example, the Apple logo is simple, elegant, and minimalist, which reflects the company’s focus on innovation and sophistication. In contrast, the Nike logo is bold, dynamic, and empowering, which reflects the company’s focus on sports and fitness. By creating a consistent visual identity, brands can differentiate themselves from competitors and build strong relationships with customers.
Usability and Functionality
Finally, design can impact usability and functionality. A well-designed website, app, or product should be intuitive and easy to use. Good design can help users navigate complex systems, understand information more quickly, and accomplish tasks more efficiently. For example, a clear and simple navigation menu can make it easier for users to find what they’re looking for on a website. Similarly, a product with an ergonomic design can reduce the risk of injury and improve the user’s overall experience.
Conclusion
Design has a profound impact on our perception of the world around us. It can influence our decisions, emotions, and attitudes, and it can help us navigate complex systems and accomplish tasks more efficiently. By understanding the power of design, we can create experiences that are not only visually appealing but also emotionally engaging, functionally effective, and consistent with brand identity.
Sources:
- “The Psychology of Color in Marketing and Branding” by Gregory Ciotti, Help Scout: https://www.helpscout.com/blog/psychology-of-color/
- “The Power of Shapes in Graphic Design” by Sandra Kuijmans, Creative Bloq: https://www.creativebloq.com/inspiration/power-shapes-graphic-design
- “The Importance of Brand Identity Design” by Lucidpress: https://www.lucidpress.com/blog/the-importance-of-brand-identity-design
- “The Role of Design in Product Development” by Rachel Gertz, Smashing Magazine: https://www.smashingmagazine.com/2018/06/role-design-product-development/