John Salmon

John Salmon is an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Brigham Young University, where he has become a leading voice in the field of Kansei engineering. This innovative approach, originating from Japan, emphasizes the importance of understanding and designing for the emotional and subjective impressions of customers. Salmon's work in this area highlights the need to prioritize customer satisfaction beyond traditional performance metrics, focusing on elements such as color, size, and shape that influence consumer preferences. Salmon advocates for the integration of Kansei engineering principles early in the design process. He argues that by doing so, engineers can better identify target customers, classify semantic expressions, and effectively link technical specifications to positive emotional responses. This approach not only enhances product appeal but also ensures that designs resonate on a deeper, more personal level with consumers. In his teachings and research, Salmon underscores the necessity for future engineers to excel in both objective and subjective measures of effectiveness. He believes that a comprehensive understanding of technical requirements must be complemented by an awareness of non-technical aspects, such as aesthetics and user experience, to boost a product's marketability and attractiveness. Salmon's commitment to this holistic approach in engineering education and practice is evident in his work at BYU. He encourages his students to think beyond conventional engineering paradigms and to consider the broader implications of their designs. By doing so, he prepares them to meet the evolving demands of the industry, where consumer expectations are increasingly shaped by emotional and subjective factors. Through his research and teaching, John Salmon continues to contribute significantly to the field of Kansei engineering, inspiring a new generation of engineers to create products that not only meet technical standards but also connect with consumers on an emotional level. His work exemplifies the fusion of technical expertise and creative insight, paving the way for more innovative and consumer-centric design solutions.