What is user-centered design (UCD)?

User-centered design (UCD) is fundamentally a design process that prioritizes the users and their needs throughout every stage of the design process. This approach involves understanding the users' behaviors, preferences, and experiences to create products that are not only functional but also provide a satisfying user experience. By focusing on the end users, designers are able to produce solutions that are more relevant and effective, ultimately leading to products that are tailored specifically to meet the needs and expectations of the target audience.

The emphasis on understanding and integrating user feedback sets UCD apart from design methodologies that might emphasize technical specifications, aesthetic considerations, or disregard user input. This user-first ethos ensures that the resulting designs are intuitive, accessible, and enjoyable for the users, aligning with their real-world needs and context.