Assumptions and Questions for User-Centered Design
Three basic assumptions for user-centered design are (Dennig and Dargan):
- The result of a good design is a satisfied user.
- The process of design is a collaboration between designers and users.
The design evolves and adapts to the changing concerns of the users,
and the process produces a specification as an important byproduct.
- The user and designer are in constant communication during the
entire process.
Some key questions for user-centered design are:
- Who will use the system?
The same functionality requires a different interface for novices than
for experts, or infrequent but skilled users, etc.
- What are people's tasks?
Interface (parts) for frequent tasks are different from those for
rare (but important) tasks.
- What previous experiences are brought into the task?
Previous training, experience with other applications, metaphors, etc.
- What is the variation between individual abilities?
Differences in both physical and cognitive abilities should be considered.
Some disabilities are difficult to accomodate.
- What is the total task environment of the user?
Will the user be performing other tasks (using other applications) as well?
- What is the physical environment?
Individual office or terminal room, ambiant light or noise,
frequent short or longer interruptions, etc.
- How or when will the system be used?
Under stress, in emergency situations, or when relaxed, concentrated, etc.