Being consumer-centric is a way of thinking, a philosophy that drives your actions. HCD or Human Centered Design was first a powerful movement in the 90’s and is still core, but delivering exceptional design means going to the next level. Designing for consumer needs is critical, but that only addresses the actual or the current state. Understanding needs, and hen going the extra mile beyond creates real desire, emotional drive.Often these are things a consumer cannot tell you. A consumer never said, “I need an ipod”.

A consumer cannot paint the future for you, sure they can help get you started, but then it’s up to your team and the intelligence and creativity they add.

What do you think?