The term user-centered design is also used in web design and web development, often synonymously with human-centered design. However, upon closer inspection, there are subtle differences between the two concepts. While user-centered design focuses on the specific future user, human-centered design also incorporates other stakeholders who interact with the application or product. For example, when designing an app for couriers, delivery drivers should be surveyed, alongside the recipients of packages. Employees who process and evaluate the app data in the forwarding company should also be asked for their input. When creating a gaming app for children, parents or guardians should be involved.
User Experience Design is a similar term. Here too, the aim is to improve the user experience, make the product experience more pleasant, and design a more intuitive application. However, the measures only start after the project team has already outlined the product. Human-centered design takes a different approach because users are involved in the product development phase.
Design thinking is another concept similar to human-centered design. In both cases, the focus is on the user and the developer communicates with the potential users from the outset. Prototypes are used for iterative improvements. However, while human-centered design focuses on usability and the user experience, design thinking is more likely to be employed when developing entirely new creative products. The method is designed to question existing solutions and develop innovations.