DO WE REALLY EMPHASIZE THE USERS THAT MUCH? EXPLORATIVE INTERVIEWS WITH INTERACTION DESIGNERS
Hanne Sørum · 2015
During the technological shift and decades of online experience, we stress the importance of satisfying the users on the Web and in the use of information systems. In this regard, many organizations outsource activities for design and development to consulting companies that are experts in these areas. In such cases, the interaction design process is highly critical in the creation of a system of great quality. The present paper investigates how practitioners (i.e. interaction designers) explain the interaction design process, including user-centered activities. Qualitative interviews were held with experienced designers in large consulting companies in Norway. The findings reveal that the design process varies a lot, mostly depending on the client. Interaction designers perceive that their role in this process is found not to be as important as perhaps it should be. Furthermore, the users are involved in activities such as testing to just a limited extent. User testing and similar activities can put the development process on hold, resulting in consequences for the time schedule and budget. The concluding remarks stress the need for more in-depth research to facilitate great user experiences and the role of an interaction designer. Additionally, we should strive for a common understanding of testing as a vital part of the design process and more emphasis should be placed on how to include such activities.