ABSTRACT
Engineering design is generally focused on the objectives of a system and the mechanisms for accomplishing those objectives. However, engineering design also involves the experience that is created by a system. Whether an operator or user or those otherwise affected by a system and its operations, the experiences that are created will determine whether objectives are met, and how well they are met. Technically, a system may provide the mechanisms to achieve its objectives, yet due to confusion, frustration, annoyance, fatigue, or other effects, the system may fail. While key facets of a system may operate as designed, there may also be unintended effects. For example, artifacts associated with simulation-based trainers may result in learning that proves counterproductive when students must function within real-world settings. To successfully engineer systems that accomplish their stated objectives, it is important that designers attend to the experiences that are created by these systems. Furthermore, there are opportunities to engineer experiences that will produce more positive outcomes than would be expected, given only the mechanics of the system. Within many contexts, a functional system that meets the basic operational objectives may be readily achievable. However, by also attending to the experience created by a system, there is a differentiating opportunity to create a level of satisfaction and a subsequent desire that will translate into high regard and loyalty toward one’s products.
