Designing for Emotion

Aarron Walter has written a fantastic book on how design psychology influences how we understand, relate and desire software, websites and even everyday objects. It is a concise look at how, when done properly, including humanizing design elements, incorporating certain techniques and craft provide users and customers with a positive emotional experience often referred to as "delight".

Walter discuses how Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs can be employed to help design user interfaces that create surprise, anticipation, and a feeling of exclusivity. He references a few real world websites including MailChimp (where he is the head user interface designer), Mint and Wufoo.

The book is written in a completely accessible manner, even for non-designers, and could just as well be describing how to "design" an actual business which can generate loyal, return customers. A quick read, well worth the time.

Very helpful and insightful!