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Integrating Emotional Attachment and Sustainability in Electronic Product Design

Author

Listed:
  • Alex Lobos

    (Department of Industrial Design, Rochester Institute of Technology, 73 Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester, NY 14623, USA)

  • Callie W. Babbitt

    (Golisano Institute for Sustainability, Rochester Institute of Technology, 81-2173, 111 Lomb Memorial Dr., Rochester, NY 14623, USA)

Abstract

Current models for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) products encourage frequent product replacement with newer versions that offer only minor incremental improvements. This pattern, named planned obsolescence, diminishes user experience and shortens product lifespan. This paper presents the conceptual basis for a two-part integrated approach to combating planned obsolescence in ICT devices. First, design for emotional attachment, which creates products that users enjoy, value, and use for longer. Second, technological adaptability, which anticipates product upgrades and repairs as new technologies emerge. A model interdisciplinary design course in industrial design and sustainability, also described herein, trains students to apply this approach to create innovative ICT products with smaller environmental footprints.

Suggested Citation

  • Alex Lobos & Callie W. Babbitt, 2013. "Integrating Emotional Attachment and Sustainability in Electronic Product Design," Challenges, MDPI, vol. 4(1), pages 1-15, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jchals:v:4:y:2013:i:1:p:19-33:d:24284
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    Citations

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    Cited by:

    1. Danilov, Yuriy (Данилов, Юрий) & Dustova, E. A. (Дустова, Е.), 2016. "Monitoring of the Global Competitiveness of the Russian Financial Market and Analysis of Measures for Its Improvement [Сравнительный Анализ Практики Технологического Присоединения Потребителей К Эл," Working Papers 961, Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration.
    2. Jianfeng Wu & Chuchu Jin & Lekai Zhang & Li Zhang & Ming Li & Xuan Dong, 2021. "Emotionally Sustainable Design Toolbox: A Card-Based Design Tool for Designing Products with an Extended Life Based on the User’s Emotional Needs," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(18), pages 1-19, September.
    3. Mona Komeijani & Erinn G. Ryen & Callie W. Babbitt, 2016. "Bridging the Gap between Eco-Design and the Human Thinking System," Challenges, MDPI, vol. 7(1), pages 1-16, March.
    4. Jian Wang & Yen Hsu, 2019. "Does Sustainable Perceived Value Play a Key Role in the Purchase Intention Driven by Product Aesthetics? Taking Smartwatch as an Example," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 11(23), pages 1-24, November.

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