Cognitive Design

As a cognitive designer I am constantly searching for evidence-based ideas (or even informed hunches) on how to tweak features, functions and forms to induce specific mental states and processes in folks that use the products, services, concepts or experiences I design. One such insight is mentioned in a recent article in Science Daily, Key to Happiness is Gratitude and Men May Be Locked Out.   

Gratitude is an emotional state usually created through an expression of thankfulness for receiving a gift or some form of support. Recent research suggests that experiencing gratitude is an essential part of being happy.  So designing artifacts that facilitate the expression of gratitude should otherwise create a happy mental state.  This design  challenge may be linked to gender or at least the psychographics of how one views the burdens and blessings of receiving a gift.  

No matter, a great gift idea from a cognitive design standpoint is one that enhances the recievers happiness by making it easy (low social anxiety, fast, low cost, little effort) and appropriate (reflects values and personality) for them to express gratitude for receiving it.  

Bottom line - build functionality for the expression of gratitude into product, service and workplace designs to enhance happiness.