Agile UCD = User-Centered Design in Agile Software Development
User-Centered Design in Agile Software Development is my master's thesis discussing the integration of the two. If you're interested in the topic you can download the thesis as PDF and pass the link to your colleagues.
What is this all about?
There are issues in traditional software development, e.g., the lack of user input and incomplete and changing requirements that can cause problems in projects. Both User-Centered Design (UCD) and agile software development are iterative approaches to software development, and they can increase the chances for delivering a successful project.
UCD is a design process focusing on user research, user interface design and usability evaluation. Agile software development refers to a number of iterative and incremental software development methodologies that emphasize people, communication and the ability to adapt to change.
Integrating UCD and agile development would create a comprehensive systems development methodology. They do not have inherent obstacles that could prevent such integration, but both need to change before it can succeed. While no 'unified' Agile UCD methodology has been established, there has been a growing interest in learning how to integrate these two proven approaches over the last few years.
This thesis explores the integration of UCD and agile development through experience reports and studies that have been published in the industry and academia. It sketches a complete picture of the integrated development process and the related best practices. Also some advice related to the organizational adoption of the process and its practices are provided.
Download the PDF (1,9 MB)
Agile UCD resources
Here are some Agile UCD resources I explored for the thesis (some require you to login). Enjoy!