Sensory evaluation

Sensory evaluation is a set of methods that uses humans as measuring instruments for gaining knowledge of those factors that cannot be measured by other means.

Sensory evaluation works in a cross-disciplinary manner between what is objectively measurable, and what is subjectively preferable.

At SenseLab, we have extended the use of the methods of sensory evaluation to include the modalities of hearing, vision and touch.

Sensory Evaluation techniques can provide valuable knowledge in cases where:

• A product's perceived quality affects the user's experience
• Sound, vision or haptics are used in the user interface
• The product emits sound, light or vibration

Well tested methods applied in a new area

The method originates from the food industry, which has been using it for decades. In recent years, however, the method has spread to the high-tech field with the likes of B&O, Saab, BMW and Nokia applying these techniques to gain better understanding of the end-user perception of products with regard to their sensory characteristics.