User-Centered Design
Topics on this Page
- What is User-Centered Design?
- Importance of User-Centered Design
- The Process
- Questions to Ask When Planning a User-Centric Website
What is User-Centered Design?
User-centered design (UCD) is a design methodology and process that focuses on the:
- Needs of end users
- Limitations of end users
- Preferences of end users
- Business objectives
No matter what objectives you have for your site, it must carefully balance the needs of users and the needs of your organization.
Importance of User-Centered Design
Users visit your website to find information or accomplish tasks. If they don't find your website helpful, you risk them leaving. By focusing on the end user you:
- Satisfy the user with a more efficient and user-friendly experience
- Increase loyalty and return visits
- Establish a more relevant and valuable website
- Create websites that supports rather than frustrates the user
The Process
To create a user-centered website, you must think about the needs of your users through each step of the process, including:
Questions to ask When Planning a User-Centric Website
To create a user-centric site, you must clearly define your organization and users' needs, goals, and objectives. Begin by asking questions such as:
- What are your business and website objectives?
- Who are the users of your website?
- What are their experience levels with the website?
- What are their tasks and goals when using your website?
- What information and functions do your users need, and in what form do they need it?
- How do users think your website should work?
- What devices and browsers will they use to access your site?
Get a complete list of questions to consider (PDF-160KB).
