This study aimed to present a scientific approach for determining signboard color combinations that convey a desired brand image while harmonizing with urban landscapes. Three impression rating experiments using the semantic differential method were conducted. The first experiment examined the relationship between two-color combinations and perceived impressions using simple geometric shapes, providing general guidelines. The second applied these findings to actual signboard configurations and identified combinations that achieved the target impression of “Aggressive Yet Elegant.” The third verified visual harmony and conspicuity of the selected configuration within real landscapes. Results indicated that a black background with white letters and lime-green ornamental lines was perceived as powerful, stylish, and visually prominent while maintaining harmony with surroundings. These findings offer practical insights for color planning in signboards and other visual media.

The empirical research in this paper is conducted on investment trust transactions. This empirical research targets the wealthy and is conducted to determine, among existing customers of financial institutions, what types of products the truly wealthy will be interested in as their lifestyles change, based on past data and the lifestyles of other similar wealthy individuals. This is then analyzed using machine learning to identify potential wealthy customers who have not yet made a transaction and are likely to be interested in the products proposed by financial institutions, and the accuracy and effectiveness of the analysis results are confirmed.

In recent years, social isolation and loneliness have become serious societal issues, increasingly affecting even younger generations. One contributing factor is the fragmentation of communities caused by life events such as relocation or transition to new life stages. To enhance the sense of connectedness among individuals in fragmented communities, we propose an interface design for a location-sharing system that visualizes behavioral commonality and aggregates users’ locations on a small-scale virtual map, aiming to foster awareness of others’ presence and activities. We verified the impact of the two factors in this method on users’ impressions of the provided information from three perspectives: sense of connectedness, sense of unity, and awareness. The results showed that the behavioral commonality was the primary factor contributing to all three aspects. Furthermore, the combination of the behavioral commonality with the aggregation of location information was effective in enhancing a sense of connectedness and unity.

This study investigates how distinct fabric softener fragrances influence emotional responses and perceptions during the laundry process. Three types of fabric softeners were used, each with a unique fragrance profile: Softener T (powdery/fruity/floral), Softener U (fruity/floral), and Softener V (fruity/woody/floral). A total of 34 female participants were divided into four groups, categorized by the duration of product use and the number and variety of softeners provided: Group P (4 weeks): All three softeners (T, U, and V); Group Q (1 week): All three softeners (T, U, and V); Group R (4 weeks): One softener of the participant’s choice; and Group S (1 week): One softener of the participant’s choice. Participants used the assigned softeners in their homes. Semistructured interviews were conducted to explore the emotional and perceptual impacts of softener use during laundry. The study examined how the number and variety of softeners and duration of use affected the participants’ experiences. Responses were analyzed using the KJ method, resulting in a two-part model of the laundry experience: (i) experiencing fragrances fostered positive impressions of doing laundry, including feelings of surprise and anticipation; (ii) experiencing multiple fragrances prompted reflection on desired emotional outcomes during laundry.

The food waste problem in the hotel industry is serious, with a heavy environmental impact and high economic costs. As a result, there is active research into ways to reduce the environmental impact of buffets. Existing literature has accumulated knowledge such as explaining the health aspects to customers, devising ways to serve the food, offering discounts for finishing the meal, and understanding the characteristics of consumers who are prone to food waste. However, with the spread of Instagram, the main purpose of today’s travelers has changed to taking photos that they can show off to others. In this situation, the appeal of buffets themselves may be declining. Therefore, this study demonstrated that food sets are more attractive than buffet venues and dishes that can be photographed in reality. The effect is more pronounced the more involved the hotel is and the more frequently Instagram is used.