BY MARK MONEYPENNY & DEVIN MOORE
Don’t leave a brand to chance.
The River Stone Phenomenon: Have you ever picked up a river stone and held it? There is something about the shape, smoothness, and warmth/coolness of the rock that feels good in your hand. These characteristics create a cause and effect relationship. An experience is created and the effect is a calming emotional connection. We don’t know why exactly it feels that way, but it’s just right.
This phenomenon is very present in products. Attributes that users aren’t conscious of can often define the experience of a product. Our senses ignite in the very first moments of interacting with a product, and if designed thoughtfully can generate a powerful experience and a lasting emotional connection.