Case study: Sonic effect of product setup on perceived quality: an approach to home appliance design

This study focuses on the correlation between home appliance products' setup sound and users' perceived sense of reliability and quality. â–œSetup soundâ–? stands for the click sound emitted by the components involved in the use of the products. Research was conducted through a survey of 15 participants' experiences in two phases: first while interacting with our three case products and then while merely listening to their setup sounds. As an outcome, we were able to figure out how particular product sound attributes affect perceived senses of reliability and quality in users. Using the Delphi method, further investigation was conducted regarding the user's perceptions through suggesting and analyzing some other factors. Based on this study, setup sound can have a dramatic effect on user's perceived sense of reliability in some cases, although it cannot be considered as the single contributing factor to an effective setup. For a perception of reliability and quality to be properly conveyed to the users, a cohesive set of affecting features must be considered and accurately imbedded in the design and manufacturing process.