What does 'user-centered design' focus on?

User-centered design focuses on the needs and experiences of the end-user, reflecting a fundamental principle in UX design. This methodology prioritizes understanding the users' goals, behaviors, and the context in which they will use a product or service. By centering the design process around the user's perspective, designers can create solutions that are not only functional but also intuitive and satisfying to use.

The core idea is to involve users in the design process, which can include gathering feedback through interviews, surveys, and usability testing. By actively engaging with the end-users, designers can gain insights that inform the design choices they make, ensuring that the resulting product aligns closely with user expectations and needs.

This approach contrasts sharply with focusing on the designers' preferences, company efficiencies, or technical capabilities, which may overlook the actual requirements of the users who will interact with the product. By centering the design around the users, the end result is more likely to enhance user satisfaction and usability, ultimately leading to better adoption and success of the product in the market.