[2.1] Design Methods and Processes

Question 1

What is User-Centred Design (UCD)?

Answer 1

• UCD aims to improve users’ experience of using products

- Following the international usability standard, ISO 13407, makes the success of a product more likely

Question 2

What methods are used to achieve UCD standards?

Answer 2

• Apply ergonomic principles for ease of use and comfort
• Use anthropometric data to ensure a good ‘fit’
• Observe people using products
• Organise focus groups to identify problems with existing products
• Gain understanding of how users interact with products
• Improve the user experience

Question 3

Why is it important to design to meet needs, wants or values?

Answer 3

• Physical needs of children are very different to those of the elderly, wheelchair users, disabled, blind or deaf people
• Emotional needs mainly mean what people like or dislike, their aspirations and ambitions
• The intellectual needs of consumers have to be matched to the product
• Socialogical needs and values are increasingly important as consumers become more aware of issues such as damage to the environment and demand more sustainable products.

Question 4

What are some primary investigative techniques?

Answer 4

• Market research
• Interviews
• Focus groups
• Product analysis

Question 5

What are some secondary investigative techniques?

Answer 5

• Mainly online or book research