User-centered design: 4 key principles and how to apply them in web design

User-centered design (UCD) is a methodology that focuses on creating usable products by involving end users throughout the design process, ensuring that the final product meets their needs and preferences rather than the assumptions of the designers. Originating in the field of human-computer interaction in the 1970s, UCD is applicable to various design fields, from furniture to mobile apps, and emphasizes empathy, data-driven decision-making, user involvement, and alignment of business goals with user needs. This approach can prevent costly design errors by identifying potential issues early through user research and testing, which ultimately saves time and money while increasing user satisfaction and engagement. For instance, Every.org improved its donation platform by analyzing user behavior and adjusting its design, resulting in a significant increase in donations. Despite its resource-intensive nature, UCD's focus on user feedback and iterative improvements leads to more effective and satisfying designs, as demonstrated by the four phases of the UCD process: specifying the context of use, specifying business and user requirements, generating design solutions, and evaluating designs through usability testing.