User-centred design (UCD)

User-Centred Design (UCD)

User-centred design (UCD) is an approach where products are designed with the user’s needs, behaviors, and preferences in mind. Instead of guessing what people want, businesses research, test, and gather feedback to make sure their website, app, or service is easy and enjoyable to use. The goal is to create something that solves real problems without frustration.

Why it’s important for your business

If a product is hard to use, customers will leave and find an alternative. UCD helps businesses build products that feel natural and intuitive, increasing satisfaction and loyalty. By putting users first, companies reduce costly redesigns and improve overall success.

Examples

1. E-commerce: An online store notices customers struggling to find products, so they simplify the navigation and add a search bar that suggests popular items.
2. Finance: A banking app interviews users before redesigning its dashboard, ensuring the most-used features (like account balance and transfers) are easy to access.
3. Health: A hospital website makes appointment booking simpler by reducing the number of steps and adding clear instructions based on patient feedback.

User-centred design makes sure products fit real people’s needs, leading to happier customers and a stronger business.

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