Integrating Emotional Attachment and Sustainability in Electronic Product Design

Alex Lobos and Callie W. Babbitt
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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

Challenges, 2013, vol. 4, issue 1, 1-15

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.

Keywords: sustainability; industrial design; emotional attachment; design education (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A00 C00 Z00 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2013
References: View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (4)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:gam:jchals:v:4:y:2013:i:1:p:19-33:d:24284

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