Sharp Launches 'User-Centered Design (UCD)' Website

Sharp today launched a User-Centered Design (UCD) website. (URL: https://corporate.jp.sharp/eco/social/usability/ucd/) User-Centered Design (UCD) is a philosophy and methodology in which creators adopt the customer's perspective, reflecting insights and knowledge gained through research and verification into the design to improve usability and satisfaction. Our company has long been committed to improving usability, but we strengthened this approach as UCD in 2001 and have since reflected it in the development of our products and services. Last September, we established our corporate slogan, "A half-step ahead of people's wishes.", and are advancing the creation of "value unique to Sharp." The UCD initiative aligns with this philosophy, and we have launched this site so that specific examples can be widely known.

■ Introduction of Product and Service Examples through UCD (40 Examples) We introduce functions and features that pursue "ease of use." Additionally, to accommodate the diverse needs of customers, including those with disabilities, we have organized product features from an accessibility perspective into four categories: "Visual Support," "Auditory Support," "Physical Support," and "Safety & Comfort." The site allows users to filter products that fall under each category. This creates a system where customers can easily find products that suit their personal needs. Examples: Dehumidifier allowing water removal in a comfortable posture; Hotcook guiding recipes via screen and voice. ■ Introduction of User Research Initiatives We introduce our process of collecting and analyzing information related to customer requests, voices, and usability, such as through usability testing and interview surveys. Examples: Usability testing scenes (vacuum cleaners); Motion analysis scenes (drum-type washer-dryers). ■ Initiatives for Cultivating Usability Personnel We implement training programs aimed at developing personnel capable of practicing UCD, aiming to continuously improve employees' skills and maintain/boost motivation. Under the corporate slogan "A half-step ahead of people's wishes.", our company has stood close to each and every customer, shaping their valuable feedback into products and services. Moving forward, we will continue to strive for improvements in both usability and accessibility, contributing to the realization of a rich lifestyle by providing products and services that are easy to use and safe for a diverse range of people. [Related Links] Creation of More Usable Products and Services: https://corporate.jp.sharp/eco/social/usability/ Sharp Corporate Slogan: https://corporate.jp.sharp/info/vision/slogan/ For over 110 years, Sharp has developed many world-first and industry-first innovative products and technologies, primarily in electronics. Based on our business creed of "Sincerity and Creativity," and under the corporate slogan "A half-step ahead of people's wishes.", we aim to be a company that creates a "new culture" through original products and services that accompany people in all scenes of "living" and "working."