What is human-centered design — and why does it matter?

Human-centered design is relatively new to our community, and applying the method takes a shift in mindset.

Also known as “design thinking” and “user-centered design,” human-centered design is about designing “with” not just “for” the end user, aiming to truly meet the needs of the beneficiary, customer or client. While it has its origins in the private sector, in fields such as user-interface design, the development community has long recognized the need for more participatory approaches. But the sector still receives criticism for designing for problems instead of designing for people.

So is human-centered design just another buzzword?

Click on the above video to find out what human-centered design is, what steps it includes and why it could help organizations to work more efficiently.

Are you using human-centered design in your work? Share your experiences — good or bad — with us below or on social media using #Global2Local and visit Global to Local for more insight.

Over three weeks, Devex and its partner Chemonics will explore how the development sector can work together to promote inclusive local, and sustainable approaches to development. Global to Local will reimagine how to work together to address a myriad of interrelated challenges, pivoting toward more connected and crosscutting approaches to solving global problems. Join the conversation, tagging @Devex and #Global2Local.