Designing Where It Feels Deepest
September 17, 2025
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM
11th Floor - Breakout B

Rachael Volker
This research explores the intersection of emotional response and biometric data to inform the design of emotionally resonant products, particularly wearables. By capturing both felt experiences and physiological reactions, the study aims to identify where design “feels deepest.” Bridging legacy human-centered design with future-facing biometric sensing, it advances empathy-based methodologies through empirical evidence. Honoring emotional design traditions while integrating data-driven insight, the work demonstrates how emotional valence can guide more meaningful, responsive, and innovative design. This approach underscores that at the core of impactful products lies the deep emotional connection between people and the things they use.
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