What is user-centered design?

User-centered design (UCD) is an approach for employing usability. It is a structured product development methodology that involves users throughout all stages of Web site development, in order to create a Web site that meets users' needs. This approach considers an organization's business objectives and the user's needs, limitations, and preferences.

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Why is user-centered design important?

If your Web site is not useful to users, it will never be used. In order for your Web site to be successful, users must visit the site to find information or accomplish tasks. No matter what objectives you have set for your Web site, it must carefully balance the needs of users and the needs of your organization. If users don't find your Web site helpful, they will not use it, which will, in turn, prevent you from meeting your organization's objectives.

From the business side, you can lower operating and redevelopment costs by developing a product, such as a Web site, correctly the first time around.

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How do I create a user-centric Web site?

The first step is to clearly define your organization and users' needs, goals, and objectives. To get the project started, begin by asking yourself (and your Web development team) more detailed questions such as:

• What are your agency's primary business objectives and how do they relate the Web?
• Who are the users of your Web site?
• What are your users' tasks and goals?
• What information do your users need, and in what form do they need it?
• What functions do your users want from the Web site?
• How do users think your Web site should work?
• What are your users' experience levels with the Web site?
• How can the design of your Web site facilitate users' cognitive processes?
• What hardware and software will the majority of your users use to access your site?

See the Questions to Ask at Kick-Off Meetings (PDF-160KB) for a full list of questions to ask your team.

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What steps are involved in the process?

To create a user-centered Web site you must think about the needs of your users throughout each step in the development of your site, including:

• planning your site
• collecting data from users
• developing prototypes
• writing content
• conducting usability testing with users

The Step-by-Step Usability Guide provided on this site provides an overview of the user-centered design process. You might want to review the visual overview of all the steps so that you can quickly jump to any step in the process.

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