User-centred design is one of the most important concepts in IB Design Technology, yet it is also one of the most misunderstood. Many students mention “the user” in their work but still lose marks because they fail to apply user-centred design properly.
In IB Design Technology, user-centred design is not about adding a user profile for formality. It is about consistently designing with the user at the centre of every decision, from the initial problem to final evaluation.
What Does User-Centred Design Mean?
User-centred design means that design decisions are driven by the needs, limitations, and context of real users, not by assumptions or personal preferences.
In IB Design Technology, this involves:
- Understanding who the user is
- Identifying specific user needs
- Designing solutions that directly address those needs
- Evaluating success based on user feedback
A design is only successful if it works for the user it was intended for.
Why User-Centred Design Matters in IB Assessment
User-centred design is embedded throughout:
- Exam questions
- Extended responses
- The design project (internal assessment)
Examiners look for clear evidence that students:
- Understand their user
- Justify decisions using user needs
- Evaluate outcomes from the user’s perspective
When user-centred design is missing, work becomes generic and loses depth.
How to Apply User-Centred Design Properly
Identifying a Specific User
Strong user-centred design starts with a specific user, not a broad group.
Weak examples:
- “Teenagers”
- “Students”
- “People who exercise”
Stronger examples:
- “A Year 10 student with limited hand strength”
- “An elderly user with reduced mobility”
- “A teacher working in a crowded classroom”
Specific users allow for meaningful design decisions.
Conducting Effective User Research
User-centred research should be relevant and purposeful, not excessive.
Effective research includes:
- Interviews or conversations with users
- Observations of users in context
- Targeted surveys focused on needs and limitations
Research should always inform design decisions. If research is not used later, it adds little value.
Translating Needs into Design Requirements
User needs should be turned into clear, measurable requirements.
For example:
- A need for comfort becomes an ergonomic requirement
- A need for accessibility becomes an inclusive design feature
This step is essential for linking research to design choices in both exams and coursework.
Testing with Users
Testing is a key part of user-centred design.
Effective testing:
- Involves real users whenever possible
- Focuses on functionality and usability
- Produces feedback that leads to improvement
Testing without acting on feedback is one of the most common reasons students lose marks.
Evaluating from the User’s Perspective
Evaluation should always return to the user.
Strong evaluation:
- Refers directly to user needs
- Uses feedback as evidence
- Acknowledges limitations honestly
Statements like “the product works well” are weak unless supported by user evidence.
User-Centred Design in Exams
In exams, user-centred design appears through scenario-based questions.
High-scoring answers:
- Identify relevant user needs quickly
- Justify decisions using those needs
- Evaluate trade-offs clearly
Ignoring the user in exam responses almost always limits marks.
Common User-Centred Design Mistakes
Students often lose marks by:
- Choosing users that are too broad
- Adding research without using it
- Designing based on personal preference
- Evaluating success without user feedback
IB rewards consistency, not volume.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you always need a real user?
For the design project, real users are strongly recommended. In exams, hypothetical users are acceptable as long as needs are realistic and justified.
Is user-centred design more important than creativity?
Yes. Creativity supports user-centred design, but marks are awarded for how well a solution meets user needs, not how original it looks.
Can poor user-centred design cap your grade?
Absolutely. Weak user focus limits marks across multiple criteria, especially in evaluation and justification.
Final Thoughts
User-centred design is the backbone of IB Design Technology. Students who keep the user central at every stage write stronger exam answers, produce clearer design projects, and avoid common assessment pitfalls.
RevisionDojo Tip
RevisionDojo is the best platform for IB Design Technology students who want step-by-step guidance on applying user-centred design correctly in both exams and coursework. With the right structure and feedback, user-centred design becomes a strength rather than a source of lost marks.
