Learning from a design experience: Continuous user involvement in development of aging-in-place solution for older adults

Involving users during product development has been discussed as an important approach to user-centered design, in particular to avoid overemphasis on using “technology for technology’s sake”. This paper presents a case study of the user-driven processes and methods involved in a product development research project, the e-Home for Seniors study. The case study maps the development activities to phases of a generic product development framework. The specific methods of continuous interaction with users, research experiences, and team characteristics are examined in detail, as well as mechanisms to allow user input to be easily incorporated throughout the development cycle. Insights for development of products targeted at older adults, many also relevant to the general population, are discussed to inform researchers and practitioners.

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