Benefits of user centred design

User centred design produces interfaces that users learn to operate more quickly, are easier to understand, are quicker to operate and are less error prone. It also benefits to the company often providing more efficient development, reducing reliance on customer service and improving sales.

Task completion

If an interface has not been structured in a way that allows users to find what they require easily they may give up. If the interface does not provide sufficient information at the correct time, such as adequately defining terms or reassuring about security measures, users may abandon the task. This can lead to a loss of revenue on e-commerce sites and mean users are less likely to use the interface next time they have similar needs.

Correctly entered information

Spending time analysing tasks in light of the users abilities will help to minimise the mistakes made by users and make them more easily recoverable. This will lead to more confident interaction with the interface that may be reflected in revenue. It has also been suggested that greater usability increases the perception of security.

Less strain on resources

Simpler, easier to understand interfaces mean users will be able to complete tasks more quickly. This will result in kiosks being able to service more customers. It is also a consideration to a lesser degree on the Internet where it will free server resources for other users.

More time to investigate the interface further

If users achieve their goal quicker than expected they may use the additional time to further investigate the interface and related products.

Positive perception of the brand

A compelling and unobtrusive user interface will ensure that negative associations are not transferred to the brand.

Less training/ help

A more usable site or interface means users are less likely to rely on help documentation and call centres. This can result in cost savings. Help documentation may not need to be as extensive reducing development costs. Greater usability will result in fewer users contacting site administrators or call centres due to problems using the interface reducing running costs.

Shorter development time

Although user centred design techniques take time to implement they can often reduce development. User research can often put an end to circular arguments that get raised again and again through out the design process. The structured approach focusing on the goals of the site and its customers means the reasoning behind decisions is transparent.

Fewer Changes

User centred design produces a solution that meets the users needs more closely. This mean there is likely to be fewer aspects that require amending once the system goes live. This will reduce the cost of correcting the interface. Changes within the development stage are also likely to be less costly before the solution is built.

Easier to fix problems

Once an interface is built the structure of the system will limit the options available when rectifying issues. It may be too costly or impractical to implement the ideal solution.