7 Aesthetics and ergonomics

Specification content

Candidates learn the importance of the visual appearance of a product and of designing environments, products and systems to fit the people who use them.

Content:

• How aesthetics is concerned with the visual appearance of a product.

• The use of line, colour, shape, proportion and form to improve visual appearance.

• The appreciation of the effects of light and shade on solid forms and of different surface finishes on visual and tactile senses.

• The balance of form and function.

• How ergonomics is concerned with understanding how humans interact with environments, products and systems.

• The common anthropometric measurements, including weight, height, knee height, sitting height, body mass index (BMI), body circumference (arm, waist, hip and calf) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR).

• The interpretation and application of anthropometric data to design development.

aesthetics in product design

Aesthetics in product design refers to the sensory experience a product offers, primarily focusing on its visual appeal, but also encompassing touch, sound, and even smell in some contexts. Derived from the Greek word aisthēsis, meaning “perception” or “sensation,” aesthetics is fundamentally about how a product makes people feel when they interact with it. While functionality and usability are crucial, a product’s aesthetics often determine a user’s first impression and can significantly influence desirability and brand perception.

Key Features of Aesthetics in Design

Form and Shape: The contours and structure of a product contribute to its identity. Think of the sleek silhouette of the iPhone, which communicates modernity and simplicity.
Color: Color evokes emotion and signals purpose. For instance, black is often used to suggest luxury (as seen in high-end audio equipment), while bright colors can imply playfulness or accessibility (like in children’s toys or Google’s logo).
Texture and Material: The way a product feels—smooth, rough, soft, or metallic—affects user satisfaction. Leather on a premium car seat or the matte finish on a smartphone offers tactile pleasure.
Proportion and Balance: Good design often reflects harmony. Balanced proportions can make a product look more stable, trustworthy, and pleasing. The symmetry of a MacBook, for example, adds to its visual coherence.
Style and Branding: Aesthetic choices also support brand identity. Apple leans into minimalism, while brands like Dyson emphasize futuristic and innovative visual cues.
Cultural and Emotional Resonance: Some aesthetic elements carry deeper meaning or trigger personal memories. A retro-style radio may invoke nostalgia, even if it's packed with modern technology.

Introduction to aesthetics video

Watch the video clip so that you are aware of the 'key principles of design' and how these are used in product design to evoke a sensory response to the product.

Suggested Task

After watching the video, produce an image board highlighting the key aesthetic principles of the products you have found.

anthropometrics and ergonomics

What is Anthropometrics?

Anthropometrics is the study of human body measurements and proportions. It involves collecting data about the size, shape, and range of motion of the human body. This includes measurements like height, arm reach, grip diameter, and eye level. Designers use anthropometric data to ensure that a product can physically accommodate the intended users.

For example, the dimensions of a chair are often based on anthropometric statistics to ensure it supports the average person’s height, leg length, and posture. By referencing this data, designers can tailor products to fit a wide range of users or target specific demographic groups such as children, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities.

What is Ergonomics?

Ergonomics is the science of designing products, systems, and environments that optimise human well-being and overall system performance. It goes beyond just fitting physical dimensions—ergonomics takes into account user comfort, efficiency, safety, and usability. In product design, ergonomic principles help ensure that users can interact with a product naturally and comfortably, minimizing strain or fatigue.

For instance, the angle of a keyboard or the curvature of a mouse is designed ergonomically to reduce wrist strain during extended use.

User comfort: Make sure the product feels good to use and doesn't cause strain or pain.

Efficiency: Design the product to be easy to use and avoid unnecessary movements.

Safety: Consider potential hazards and design the product to minimize risks.

Adjustable height: Allow users to customize the product to fit their body size and posture.

Cushioned surfaces: Provide comfort and reduce pressure points.

Intuitive controls: Make it easy for users to understand and operate the product.

Non-slip grips: Help prevent accidental drops or slips.

The Link Between Anthropometrics and Ergonomics

Although anthropometrics and ergonomics serve different purposes, they are intrinsically linked in the design process. Anthropometric data provides the raw measurements—the “what fits”—while ergonomics applies this data in context—the “how it works comfortably.”

Designers rely on anthropometric databases to understand the physical characteristics of their user base and then apply ergonomic principles to create products that not only fit those users but also enhance their interaction. For example, when designing an office chair:

Anthropometrics informs the height of the seat, the depth of the cushion, and the position of the armrests.
Ergonomics influences the adjustability of the backrest, lumbar support features, and the overall comfort during prolonged sitting.

Together, these disciplines ensure that products are both inclusive and user-centered, reducing the risk of discomfort or injury and increasing user satisfaction.