Perceived Sensory Characteristics of Wood by Consumers and Trained Evaluators

The increase in wood consumption has led to the search for species that guarantee a volume of production and the least possible environmental impact. It, therefore, becomes necessary to investigate the reason behind consumer choices for certain types of wood. The designer is essential in this interpretation of reasons that lead the user to opt for a product, transforming subjective preferences into tangible design characteristics. This article presents research that investigated users’ tactile and visual perceptions of wood. Tests with users, based on sensory analysis proved to be an appropriate method to study the relationship between people's subjective judgment and the technical characteristics of the products. The outcome of this study reveals the possibility of further investigations concerning the perceived aspects of users, which can add value to planted forest timber. Practical Applications The outcome of this study reveals the possibility of further investigations concerning the perceived aspects of users’ choice when analyzing wood samples, adding value to planted forest timber. Tests with users to explore liking and their relation with attribute tests with experts are important in understanding user preferences and in investigation of user choices of certain types of wood. Through this it is possible to guide the product development. Designers are essential in this interpretation of reasons of user's choice, transforming subjective preferences into product tangible characteristics. Relating physical and hedonic aspects allows for the enhancement of product design, and the preference map allows for the guidance of the comprehension of this analysis. The preference map analysis is possible using quantitative data from the material researched.