Obstacles to participatory design in large product development organizations

Abstract

Development of an "off-the-shelf' product typically starts with a product idea and only limited knowledge of the eventual users. Since the functionality is partially predefined, the most natural focus for participatory design in product development companies is the human-computer interface. However, these organizations contain inherent obstacles to involving existing or potential users even in interface design and development. Today's large product development companies were formed before the human-computer interface attained its present prominence: their organizational structures and development processes have evolved with minimal consideration of the particular needs of interface development. This paper outlines the problems in achieving and benefiting from user involvement in design that stem from typical divisions of responsibility and development processes. Overcoming such organizational constraints may ultimately require organizational change; in the meantime, those working within the organization must be aware of the problems and constantly seek constructive paths around them.