Usability and Branding: How to Make or Break Usability Conventions to Create Brand Identity
https://www.msu.edu/user/webbsuza/atw/ruddenca/index.html

Content Matters
2006

Abstract:

It has long been acknowledged in the study of usability, that the usability of a product affects the associated brand identity. While study of usability is universal to any product design, it has sprung up with the advent of the world wide web. It is becoming more important of individuals and institutions to establish a strong on-line identity for themselves or their products.