What is ISO 13407:2016

ISO, or International Organization for Standardization, is an independent, non-governmental international organization that develops and publishes standards. ISO 13407:2016 is a standard that specifies Human-Centered Design (HCD) principles and activities throughout the life cycle of interactive computer-based systems. This standard ensures that user needs and requirements are considered at every stage of product design and development.

The Purpose of ISO 13407:2016

The purpose of ISO 13407:2016 is to provide guidance on how to incorporate HCD principles into the design process of interactive systems. It aims to improve user satisfaction by ensuring that products are designed with the end-users in mind. By following the guidelines set forth in this standard, organizations can create highly usable, efficient, and enjoyable interactive systems.

The Key Principles of ISO 13407:2016

ISO 13407:2016 introduces four key principles that organizations should follow when applying HCD to their design processes:

User focus: Design processes should be based on an understanding of user needs and requirements. User research and involvement should be conducted throughout the entire design lifecycle.

Active involvement of users: The active involvement of users in the design process is crucial to ensure that their perspectives and insights are incorporated into the final product.

Iterative design: The design process should be iterative, allowing for frequent evaluations and refinements based on user feedback.

Multidisciplinary approach: The design team should consist of professionals from various disciplines, such as psychology, usability engineering, and interaction design, to ensure a holistic approach to design.

Benefits of Implementing ISO 13407:2016

By implementing ISO 13407:2016, organizations can enjoy several benefits:

Increased user satisfaction: By incorporating HCD principles, products are designed with users in mind, leading to higher user satisfaction and acceptance.

Efficiency and effectiveness: Usability testing and evaluation throughout the design process help identify and eliminate usability issues, resulting in more efficient and effective interactive systems.

Reduced redesign costs: Iterative design allows for early identification of design flaws, which reduces the need for costly redesigns later in the development process.