Knowledge Base Repository
In addition to research papers, the Design Society is developing several valuable resources for those interested in the study of design. These include a repository of PhD theses, a library of case studies and transcripts of design activities, and an archive of our newsletters. Please note that these resources are accessible exclusively to Design Society members.
Is the ‘user’ term adequate? A design anthropology perspective on design for social welfare services
Kvelland, Live M. L.; Høiseth, Marikken
Type:
Year:
2016
Editor:
Boks, Casper; Sigurjonsson, Johannes; Steinert, Martin; Vis, Carlijn; Wulvik, Andreas
Author:
Series:
NordDESIGN
Institution:
Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway
Section:
Healthcare and Welfare Design
Page(s):
247-257
ISBN:
978-1-904670-80-3
Abstract:
hange within a social context. Although service designers are increasingly considering people involved as ‘partners’ or ‘co-producers’, the term ’user’ remains widely applied. This article aims to explore how the term ‘user’ fits within the context of design for public services. It argues that a design anthropology perspective can help designers become more aware of people as actively shaping services and that the ‘user’ term in public welfare services could be reconsidered through concepts such as contextualization, human-centeredness and design as grown. Designers might then facilitate for infrastructures where design happens through people’s participation in services, rather than services pre-designed for ‘consumption’. In light of the shift toward human-centered design, this exploratory review builds on a timely question and discusses concepts and considerations that are relevant for design researchers and practitioners alike.
Keywords:
