Understanding user needs

There are a number of methods that can be utilised to understand the needs of users; however, depending on the method we use we may only understand the surface layer of what users think they want, rather than pushing into the deeper understanding of what users really need, as illustrated in the image below. This section will delve into a number of methods, listing them from surface gathering methods to gaining deeper understanding, that can be used in healthcare. Each method highlights what the method is, and why, when, and how you could use each during the development process.

Participatory design methods adapted from Sanders, 2012