A SURVEY ON EFFECTS OF MUSIC ON DESIGN ASSOCIATION

Abstract

Music is an important aspect of most people’s life. Many studies have pinpointed the effects of music in different areas. In this study, the authors aim to explore the views designers have in regard to the effects of music in association to design processes. To achieve this goal, designers first underwent a semi-structured interview. Then a total of 538 questionnaire surveys were disseminated to design students, professional designers and design managers. Major findings from the study are: 1) Most subjects get used to listening to music in their design activities, and there are close interactions between designers and music. 2) Most subjects claimed a positive effect from listening to music, an activity which they considered to be greatly helpful in the idea development stage. 3) Subjects were in high agreement that listening to specific music helps to trigger special associations. 4) Most subjects claimed that music types are related to product design styles. For example, opera and vocal music is more likely to trigger associations to luxurious style.