Human Centred Design
Human Centred Design (HCD) assists us to hear and understand the needs of diverse stakeholders, create innovative solutions to meet these needs, and deliver those solutions in a sustainable manner.
We begin by identifying a concise Design Challenge that frames the purpose of, and possibilities for, the solutions that need to be developed.
For example:
“How can we engage, and create new and viable opportunities for, young people in rural communities?”
“How can I reach new and emerging markets whilst benefiting local communities and the environment?”
“Educate commuters about, and reduce the incidence of, at risk behaviours near railway tracks.”
“Create the appropriate mechanisms for connecting people interested in buying or selling sustainable housing.”
“How can we effectively communicate our brand and service offerings to single parents?”
After the most appropriate Design Challenge is articulated, HCD involves a 3 stage process.
1. Hear
// observation, consultation, and documentation
Creating meaningful and innovative solutions begins with understanding the needs and aspirations of the people we are developing the solutions with or for.
Through observation, consultation, and documentation, we gain an insight into specific issues, communities, frameworks and markets and identify opportunities for growth and change.
We also consider specific barriers and constraints.
2. Create
// synthesis, brainstorming, prototyping, and feedback
A process of interpreting the research and translating it into tangible concepts.
The Create phase involves 4 key activities: synthesis, brainstorming, prototyping, and feedback.
Synthesis takes us from consultation and research to the formation of ideas.
Brainstorming allows us to think expansively and without constraints.
Prototyping is about developing a range of tangible concepts without getting attached prematurely to a single solution.
Feedback inspires further iterations, bringing us closer to the desired and final solution.
3. Deliver
// ideas become public and process turns into outcome
The Deliver phase moves the agreed ideas and concept into implementation.
In order to ensure accuracy and success of implementation we often oversee this process and ensure that all project and technical details are specified, documented, delivered.
We consider how to track the success and impact of the solution.