The science of haptics examines human touch and the role computers play in creating touch sensations. Touch is emerging as an interesting sensory tool in marketing and communications, that is, of course, if you believe that all human senses can play a role in branding.
For example, we already know how paper stock, packaging and the physical design of products can evoke certain reactions. Well, the MIT Touch Lab is attempting to bring the power of tactile sensation to the Web, giving potential customers ways and means to "feel" certain objects, judge quality, calibrate weight, etc.
More information on the Touch Lab is at http://touchlab.mit.edu
For example, we already know how paper stock, packaging and the physical design of products can evoke certain reactions. Well, the MIT Touch Lab is attempting to bring the power of tactile sensation to the Web, giving potential customers ways and means to "feel" certain objects, judge quality, calibrate weight, etc.
More information on the Touch Lab is at http://touchlab.mit.edu