Why?

Why does Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and User Research matter?

With the exponential increase and acceleration with which we humans develop and use technology, it seems imperative to me to research how we interact with it and what consequences it has for us, our planet and our future. As technology keeps spreading and expanding in all of life's domains and across the globe, it appears to be of upmost importance to consciously observe, understand and shape the interactions that humans have with the technology that surround them and eventually will become part of them.

• Observe | collecting information via several qualitative and quantitative data streams is important to have a holistic perspective on the user, their needs and context and if already existing, their use of a product or service

• Understand | analysing the feedback on perception and attitudes as well as different data streams that tracked interactions and behaviours with a product or service is crucial to understand the advantages and disadvantages a product or solution bring for a target group and also the people around it/not targeted.

• Shape | only if the observed perceptions, attitudes, behaviours are understood and contextualised appropriately, we can go on to shaping and designing technology in a sustainable, non-harmful and value offering way for all.