What Is Human-Centered Design?
Human-centered design (HCD) is an established design framework that brings the end user and stakeholders into the process of solution creation to craft tools that anticipate and meet the needs of the people who use them. It’s a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates elements of cognitive science and interaction design in order to research, observe, design, test, and iteratively deliver systems with highly intuitive and effective human-machine interfaces.
Firmly rooted in empathy for the user, HCD aims to build products that afford their full intended functionality to all potential user groups without bias, regardless of factors like race, gender, and culture.
Booz Allen’s Human-Centered Design Practice
Booz Allen’s HCD practice is bolstered by a deep understanding of client missions and an unwavering commitment to empathizing with the people who carry them out using the products we create. We strive—through extensive research, interviews, and site visits—to occupy the perspectives of mission leaders, frontline operators, and ordinary citizens who need and expect to have the right information and functionality at their fingertips during the moments that matter.
Whether we’re designing an AI-based data analysis tool for on-the-ground mission operators, an information dashboard for program managers, or a software application to deliver government services directly to the citizen, we get to know the user and the mission so that the tools we build work for all. By creating tools that better serve the mission, mission operators, and citizens, we help government missions and programs better serve the nation and earn the public’s trust.
HUMAN-CENTERED DESIGN + ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Booz Allen combines AI and HCD in two ways:
We apply the principles of HCD to our creation, evaluation, and improvement of AI tools, products, and platforms, ensuring that our AI tools provide their human users with powerfully effective, intuitive experiences, and that they are ethical, responsible, and empathetic in their design and utility.
We employ AI tools in our HCD practices to delve deeper into user needs and improve process speed and precision by analyzing vast amounts of data, identifying hidden patterns, and generating communicative dynamic visuals.
Human-Centered Design in Action
Connect with Us to Get Started
From designing new systems from the ground up to incorporating new technologies like AI into existing software, Booz Allen’s HCD practice can help your mission provide end users with the intuitive experiences that they need and deserve.
Connect with an HCD expert to get started:
