The Evolution of Human-Centered Design: From Empowerment to Exploitation
Human-centred design is simply anthropocentric. According to Norman, it means that humans put themselves and above everyone and anything else. The needs and wants of humans and/or users come first. (Norman D, p.5) This is the very basis of human-centred design, even
though this might not have been its overarching intent, it has unwittingly created this dangerous assumption, nonetheless. The outlook of solving users’ every need to gain a competitive advantage is pervasive in the design of everyday digital products and services. For example, Airbnb’s end-to-end experience is one of its kind and helps travellers explore new and unique destinations, but Airbnb as a service perpetuates societal problems such as mass tourism, skewed house affordability and increased demand for aviation and transportation which ultimately adds to climate deterioration. (Chau D, p.6)
Designers even despite holding a position of power in the workplace, work in subjugation to C-level executives. Mostly design leadership roles are about strategic thinking, fostering innovation and maintaining the company brand by delighting customers’ experience at every touchpoint. (Fast Company, p.7) It is rarely about looking at the long-term impact on society and the planet when launching a new service or product. An article published by Mckinsey talks about the same and encourages CEOs to look at design leadership as a function that fosters ideas for creating the world a better place. (Dalrymple M, Pickover S, Sheppard B p.8)
While it is true that human-centred design has helped address social problems and alleviated the lives of people affected by adversity, it comes from a place of heightened self-belief on the designers’ end that design can solve everything on its own. (Brown T, Wyatt J, p.9) It’s also
known that capitalism is here to stay, as it’s the basis of our societal structure. There exists a need for corporations and designers to realize their respective shortcomings and work towards creating a future that is not only desirable, feasible and viable but also equitable, just and
ethical.
Sources:
[1] Cooley, M. (2008) On Human-Machine Symbiosis
[2] Fogg, B.J.: Persuasive technology: using computers to change what we think and do.
[3] Eyal, N.: Hooked: How to build habit-forming products
[4] Owen, M, Freed R: The Ethics of Persuasive Design in Technology Used by Children and Adolescents.
[5] Norman, D.: Human-centered design considered harmful
[6] Chau, D:
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-11-08/airbnb-not-worsening-rental-affordability-sydney-melbourne/10474580
[7] Fast company article:
https://www.fastcompany.com/3046108/4-tips-for-cultivating-design-leadership-at-big-companies
[8] Dalrymple M., Pickover S., Sheppard B.: Are-you-asking-enough-from-your-design-leaders
[9] Brown T., Wyatt J,: Design Thinking for Social Innovation