ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses the practicalities of creating usable designs by taking a 'user-centred' approach throughout the design process. The starting point in deciding who the product is aimed at is to consider the brief given by those commissioning the product. Tourist information systems are examples of products with control and display interaction which are intended for use by the general public. If the product is being designed for a single individual or a small group of individuals it may be best for those involved in the design to take the measurements or administer the strength tests themselves. In order to find out about users’ lifestyles and the contexts in which they use products, it may be necessary to involve representative users via empirical methods, such as focus groups, interviews or questionnaires, to enquire directly as to how the product would fit into their lives.
