7. 7
Empathic Design
Because users may be unable to articulate their needs, this
technique focuses on observations of customer behavior to
develop a deep understanding the user’s environment.
Types of insights
Triggers of Use
Unarticulated user needs/coping strategies
New useage situations
Customization
Intangible Attributes
8. 8
5 Steps in Empathic Design
1. Observation
Who should be observed?
Who should do the observing?
What behavior should be observed?
2. Capture the Data
Less focus on words/text; more on visual, auditory, and other
sensory cues
Via photos, etc.
9. 9
5 Steps in Empathic Design (Cont.)
3. Reflection and Analysis
Identify all customers’ possible problems and
solutions
4. Brainstorm for Solutions
Transform observations into ideas
5. Develop prototypes of solutions
Tangible representation or role play/simulation of
ideas
10. 10
Use of Empathic Design At Intel
Success rate based on engineers’ idea only 20%
Example: video phone
Team of 8 design ethnographers to find how technology
can help solve user problems
Salmon industry
Business owners
Teenagers