What is user-centred design?

User-centred design (UCD) is an iterative design process in which designers focus on the users and their needs in each phase of the design process. It involves using a mixture of investigative methods and tools (e.g., surveys and interviews) and generative ones (e.g., brainstorming) to develop an understanding of user needs.

Process of development.

The process of design I am following (for Phase 3) is practiced in this order; research, ideation, design, prototyping and testing. At this point in the project I am currently coming up with ideas for games and gathering the research I require to support it, working my way to creating the three prototypes which are required for presentation at the end of the phase.

Why is it used?

The point of user-centred design is to ensure that the experience of the player is being considered at every stage of development. So as I am working on idea generation, I must keep reminding myself of the essential experience I want the players to have and how I am planning to capture the essence of that experience. During idea generation, it is easy to go off on tangents and start running with ideas that have missed the meaning and intentions that I wish for them to include. Therefore it is important to ensure that I am considering the user, what their needs are and really focus on creating that desired experience.

User Needs

The users needs need to be considered at every level of the game development process, down to the mechanics, individual missions, and motivations etc. But it also needs to be considered on a greater level, such as socially and economically, taking considerations of all groups of society. Furthermore, the user needs the product to be inclusive and accessible. I will be taking great consideration in my design to ensure that these needs are met.

The Hierarchy of Needs

Maslow's hierarchy of needs is an idea in psychology proposed by American Abraham Maslow.

It is a theory of motivation which states that five categories of human needs dictate an individual's behaviour.

They are human requirements that are important for an individual to achieve complete development and actualisation.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs can be used in a design context to deliver more powerful user experiences that meet user needs rather than user wants. The most basic needs must be fulfilled before higher level needs can be met satisfactorily.

Physiological needs – humans need some things in order to survive. The most basic needs of all are those that are needed to sustain us as individuals and as a species. They include food, drink, shelter, breathing, sex, comfort and sleep.

Safety needs - humans need to feel safe. Variables that offer us some guarantee of being able to satisfy our physiological needs in the long-term. These include fiscal and personal security, health, protection from the elements, etc.

Love/Belonging needs - humans require connection. This could be through friends, lovers, intimacy, families, communities, relationships and a sense of belonging.

Esteem needs - humans require recognition. Esteem needs may be fulfilled by social status, achievements, mastery, prestige, etc.