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Article
Adapting User-Centered Design Methods to Design for Diverse Populations
Information Technologies & International Development
  • Cynthia Putnam
  • Emma J. Rose, University of Washington Tacoma
  • Erica J. Johnson
  • Beth Kolko
Publication Date
12-17-2009
Document Type
Article
Abstract

User-centered design (UCD) methods such as personas and scenarios are useful tools for communicating extensive user research to design teams. However, the intensive data collection and onsite fieldwork required to create personas and scenarios can present barriers for user researchers and design teams working on technology innovations for diverse populations, including those in developing regions. This article presents a model that demonstrates how user researchers and design teams can use data collected for other purposes to source personas and scenarios and to substantively adopt user-centered design approaches. We demonstrate our methods based on research conducted in a case study in Kyrgyzstan, a country in Central Asia.

Publisher Policy
open access
Citation Information
Cynthia Putnam, Emma J. Rose, Erica J. Johnson and Beth Kolko. "Adapting User-Centered Design Methods to Design for Diverse Populations" Information Technologies & International Development Vol. 5 Iss. 4 (2009) p. 51 - 74
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/emma_rose/4/