Key influences on the user-centred design process

Abstract

To develop inclusive design materials that are well suited to design practice and thus more likely to be adopted, a better understanding of this practice is needed. A triangulated study was thus conducted, including observations of case studies, interviews with designers and a literature review. The study examined many aspects of design practice, focusing on the consideration of users and influences on method uptake. Four overarching themes were identified: clients’ influence, informality, variation, and time and cost constraints. Implications include the need to educate clients in the value of inclusive design; the need for informal, cheap, yet insightful inclusive design methods; and the value of providing a range of flexible materials for different design situations.