An evaluation of the implementations and outcomes of human-centred design : a case study of Warwick Junction.
Year: 2016
Type: dissertation
Abstract: In recent years, the practice of design has moved towards human-centred design, and has \nbeen applied to a variety of fields, including development. This research provides an evaluation of \nthe implementations and outcomes of human-centred design, using the case study of Warwick \nJunction in Durban, South Africa. \nBetween 1995 and 2008, the Warwick Junction Urban Renewal Project took place, and \nusing human-centred design introduced design interventions that improved the lives of traders in the \narea through consultation and participation. However, in 2008, despite the success of this initiative, \nthis approach of human-centred design was abandoned in Warwick Junction. Drawing on available \nresearch on human-centred design as well as data collected through independent research and \ninterviews with traders, municipal officials and designers, the implementations and outcomes of the \nWarwick Project are explored. \nThis study illustrates the factors that are necessary for human-centred design to be \nimplemented in a development context: an environment that encourages change and creative \nproblem-solving; autonomy; observation of the end-users; and a desire to create systemic, \nsustainable change. With Warwick Junction as a case study, this research identified how humancentred \ndesign was used during the Warwick Project through processes such as interdisciplinary \nteamwork, area-based management, trader consultation and participation, prototyping of design \ninterventions and designers fulfilling the role of facilitators. \nThe findings suggest that if human-centred design is to be used in a development context, \nparticipation of the end-users is necessary, human-centred design must be advocated for by all \nparties involved, and finally, the practice of human-centred design must be continued and \nincorporated into common practice and policy changes in order for design interventions to be \nsustained beyond the implementation phase.
Author: Micaela. de Freitas
Language: English
Subfield: Management of Technology and Innovation
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2592027618