User-Centered Design Process

The user-centered design process (according to ISO 9241-210) describes how systems are developed that meet real needs - through iteration, participation and contextual understanding.

Definition

A user-centered design process ensures that interactive systems are developed for and with the user - systematically, iteratively and contextually.

The four main activities according to ISO 9241-210

1. Understand the context of use

Who uses the system?
For what, when and under what conditions?
What are the needs, goals and restrictions?

2. Derive usage requirements

Welche Aufgaben müssen unterstützt werden?
Which functions, data and forms of interaction are required?

3. Develop design solutions

Sketches, prototypes, wireframes
Visual design, interaction concepts
Involvement of real users

4. Evaluate design solutions

Usability-Tests
Heuristic evaluation
A/B tests, field studies, interviews

Iterative instead of linear

The four steps are carried out repeatedly - each evaluation can uncover new requirements.

Principles of user-centered design

According to ISO 9241-210:

Users take center stage
Design based on context of use
Iteration is indispensable
UX is multidisciplinary
Usability goals are explicitly formulated

Practical example

A team is developing a medication reminder app for older people:

Observation of real users in everyday life
Paper prototypes with clear buttons, large font
Evaluation through usability tests with target group
Improvement based on concrete feedback

Conclusion

The user-centered design process is not an additional effort - but a necessity for sustainable UX quality.
It provides the methodological basis for all successful UX projects.

Take Home Message

Systems are only as good as their understanding of the context of use - UX starts with listening.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What is the user-centered design process?

It is an iterative approach according to ISO 9241-210, which ensures that systems are developed for and with the users - based on real needs and usage contexts.

What are the main activities of the process?

Four steps: Understanding the context of use, deriving user requirements, developing and evaluating design solutions. These are repeated several times.

Why is iteration so important?

Every evaluation can uncover new requirements. Iteration prevents problems from being identified late and reduces the cost of rework.

How are users involved in the process?

Through interviews, field studies, usability tests and feedback in all phases - from requirements elicitation to the evaluation of prototypes.

What are the benefits of a user-centered process?

It increases usability, reduces operating errors, increases acceptance and reduces development and support costs in the long term.

Last modified: 2 November 2025