When we talk about user experience (UX), most people think about websites or mobile apps. But in product design, especially in industrial design, consumer electronics, life sciences, and medical devices, UX plays an equally critical role. A product might be engineered with cutting-edge technology, but if the user experience falls flat in the real world, adoption will be slow, brand reputation will suffer, and the product will struggle to compete in the market.
We approach user experience as a multi-dimensional framework. Each dimension represents a critical way people connect with a product, not just how it works, but also how it feels, looks, and fits into the real world, by addressing all five dimensions. Companies can create products that succeed both technically and commercially by hitting all of the right notes.
All five dimensions are as follows:
- Ergonomics
- Aesthetics
- Emotions
- Functionality
- Context
Dimension 1: The Ergonomic Dimension
The ergonomic dimension is the foundation of physical product design. It asks: How does this product feel in the user’s hands, against their body, or within their workspace?
Even the most sophisticated technology can fail if it’s not user-friendly. Think of medical tools that may need to be held for hours, or other consumer devices that people hold or play with every day. If they are too heavy, awkward, or involve unnatural hand or body positions, they create fatigue and frustration. On the other hand, ergonomically thoughtful products feel effortless and natural, almost disappearing into the user’s movements and becoming an extension of them.
Ergonomics also accounts for inclusivity. A “one-size-fits-all” approach often alienates users with smaller or larger hands, limited mobility, or different physical needs. Designing for a range of human body types ensures broader adoption and a higher satisfaction rate.
What creates a positive ergonomic dimension?
- Products that fit comfortably into the hand, pocket, or workspace.
- Balanced weight distribution that prevents strain or fatigue.
- Controls, buttons, or dials placed within natural reach zones.
- Materials and finishes that create a secure grip and comfort.
- Multiple size options or adjustable designs that accommodate diverse users.
What creates a negative ergonomic dimension?
- Awkward angles that force strain or repetitive stress.
- Controls requiring excessive force or fine motor precision.
- Ignoring left- vs right-handed use cases.
- Heavy or unbalanced products that tire the user quickly.
- Slippery surfaces or sharp edges that feel unsafe.
Dimension 2: The Aesthetic Dimension
While function gets the job done, aesthetics shape the story users tell themselves about a product. This dimension asks: What does this product say about the brand, its values, and its quality?
As humans, we are wired to judge quickly based on appearance. A product that looks clean, modern, and consistent signals reliability and innovation. Equally, a design that appears clunky or inconsistent can undermine trust, even when the engineering behind it is flawless.
Aesthetics go beyond “pretty design.” They communicate identity, professionalism, and credibility. In competitive markets like consumer electronics, aesthetics often tip the scales in favour of one brand over another. In industries such as medical or industrial tools, aesthetics reassure users that the product is safe, precise, and of high quality.
What creates a positive aesthetic dimension?
- Minimal, intentional forms that reinforce clarity and trust.
- Finishes and materials aligned with brand positioning.
- A consistent design language across a family of products.
- Subtle visual cues that reinforce usability (i.e., button placement, colour coding).
- High-quality details, such as seamless joints and durable coatings.
What creates a negative aesthetic dimension?
- Cluttered or confusing forms that look “engineered” rather than designed.
- Inconsistent colour choices or branding across product lines.
- Cheap-looking finishes that erode user confidence.
- Overly ornamental design that detracts from usability.
- Visible flaws in the build or material quality.
Dimension 3: The Emotional Dimension
Beyond how a product looks or feels physically, there is the emotional response it creates. This dimension asks: What does the user feel when they see, touch, and use this product?
Emotions are powerful drivers of loyalty. A product that inspires confidence, joy, or empowerment is far more likely to be adopted, shared, and recommended. For example, a medical device designed to look approachable can help to reduce patient anxiety. A piece of sporting equipment that feels empowering motivates performance. Emotional design is what transforms a functional tool into a product people form a connection with.
The emotional dimension also applies to first impressions, such as unboxing experiences or packaging. That first interaction sets the tone for everything that follows. A pleasant or reassuring introduction can elevate the entire brand experience.
What creates a positive emotional dimension?
- Products that evoke feelings of trust, safety, or empowerment.
- Friendly, approachable design for sensitive contexts (i.e., healthcare).
- Exciting, motivational design for lifestyle or performance products.
- Attention to detail in packaging, unboxing, and accessories.
- Elements that surprise and delight without overcomplicating things.
What creates a negative emotional dimension?
- Cold or intimidating designs that feel unapproachable.
- Overly complex interfaces make users feel inadequate.
- Packaging that frustrates or causes negative first impressions.
- Inconsistencies that lead to doubt about reliability.
- Designs that unintentionally evoke fear, confusion, or distrust.
Dimension 4: The Functional Dimension
Functionality is the backbone of user experience. It asks: Does this product actually do the job users need it to do, and does it do so intuitively?
Even the most beautiful and ergonomic product will fail if it doesn’t perform reliably. Functionality covers clarity of use, intuitive operation, durability, and responsiveness. A strong functional dimension ensures the product solves the user’s problem with minimal friction.
In practice, this means reducing unnecessary steps, providing clear feedback, and making sure products perform in real-world conditions, not just in lab settings. Products that consistently meet or exceed user expectations become trusted tools rather than frustrating obstacles.
What creates a positive functional dimension?
- Interfaces that are intuitive and require minimal instruction.
- Clear tactile or visual feedback when actions are completed.
- Streamlined workflows that reduce unnecessary complexity.
- Durable components designed to perform consistently.
- Fail-safes and error prevention that protect the user.
What creates a negative functional dimension?
- Over-engineered products that require steep learning curves.
- Lack of feedback leaves users unsure if the product is working.
- Poor durability undermines reliability.
- Features added for marketing, not the actual user’s needs.
- Interfaces that mislead or confuse.
Dimension 5: The Contextual Dimension
Context looks at the bigger picture: Where, when, and by whom is this product for?
Products don’t exist in isolation. A device used in a sterile laboratory has vastly different requirements from one used in a noisy factory or a family kitchen. Designing for context means understanding the environments, cultural norms, and physical conditions where the product will live.
When context is ignored, products fail in real-world use. A device that works in perfect conditions but overheats outdoors, or a touchscreen impossible to use with gloves, undermines trust immediately. When context is prioritized, products feel natural, reliable, and seamlessly integrated into daily life.
What creates a positive contextual dimension?
- Products designed to withstand specific environmental factors (i.e., water, dust, temperature).
- Interfaces that accommodate user conditions (i.e, large text for aging users, gloves for lab work).
- Compatibility with existing systems or ecosystems (i.e, smart home integration).
- Design adaptations for cultural or regional expectations.
- Anticipation of multiple environments, not just ideal lab conditions.
What creates a negative contextual dimension?
- Products that fail under expected real-world conditions.
- Interfaces that are impractical in their intended environments.
- Ignoring accessibility or inclusivity needs.
- Overlooking cultural differences in form, colour, or symbolism.
- Designing only for a single, most ideal scenario.
The five dimensions of user experience, ergonomics, aesthetics, emotions, functionality, and context, provide a holistic framework for creating products that succeed both technically and commercially. A product that addresses all five dimensions not only works well but will also resonate deeply with the people who use it.
At SHEPPiD, our role is to help innovators bring this balance to life. By designing across all five critical user dimensions, we ensure your products aren’t just functional tools, but meaningful experiences that influence markets and strengthen your brand.
Ready to design your next product with the user experience in mind? Contact us today for a no-charge consultation at (647) 361-3631or email us at info@sheppid.com
