Adopt a human-centered approach

Adopting human-centricity is all about putting a deep understanding and empathy for users first. It means moving past your own assumptions and actively seeking genuine user feedback from a wide range of sources. Instead of just relying on formal research like focus groups, it encourages noticing how people behave and interact in their day-to-day lives, like casual chats on a bus or snippets of conversation in a coffee shop.^[1]

For instance, a design leader in a tech firm might take the bus just to watch how people use their phones. Observing users in their natural environment can uncover real needs and problems, leading to designs that truly connect with people. This hands-on approach not only improves the design but can also open up new opportunities for the business and its users.