Multiplicity of users -
multiplicity of needs and preferences
Timo Honkela
UIAH Media Lab
Hämeentie 135 C
FIN-00560 Helsinki
Abstract
Designers and developers of any system tend naturally to look at
the use of system from their personal point of view. This includes
all the abilities, knowledge and views the developer may or may not have.
Understanding the potential variety of users and to take into
account in the design decisions is a challenging task. One may
also question the usefulness of rigid systems which cannot
be adapted by the user to her or his needs.
The following list of variety among human beings
should make it apparent that "design for all" is
a serious challenge.
- different ages: children, teenagers, adults, elderly
- variation in cognitive abilities and tendencies
- variation is psychological properties
- cultural background
- mother tongue, languages understood
- knowledge of the domain under consideration
- potential disabilities
- gender
- etc.