UCD Philosophy

The user-centered design process draws its power from two distinguishing characteristics:

1) Design and development are distinct processes.

In the user-centered design approach, product design occurs separate from and prior to any development efforts. Though this might seem to extend the total time from conception to fielding, it can actually shorten the overall process by expediting the design/test/revise cycle.

Advantage: Use of rapid turnaround, low cost techniques to develop designs.

2) Designs are vetted with users throughout the design process to ensure the validity of the proposed design.

Representative users provide feedback on the suitabilityThe product must contain the appropriate information and capabilities for the target audience. In addition, the information must be accurate, easy to understand, and up-to-date. This defines the product's suitability.
X Close and usabilityIn order for users to successfully locate information or perform using a product's capabilities, three conditions must be met. The product must be: (1) easy to learn, (2) easy to use (both cognitively and physically), and (3) easy to remember (particularly for infrequent users). These are the three dimensions of usability.
X Close of proposed designs while there is still opportunity to make adjustments. When design is complete, development can proceed with the assurance that the design supports user goals and tasks.

Advantage: Less iteration after development begins where any changes are costly.