Abstract: This paper offers a thorough examination of how User-Centered Design (UCD) can greatly enhance website usability and performance. It starts by outlining the significance of usability in web design and providing an overview of UCD, laying the groundwork for a thorough analysis of its function in producing user-friendly digital experiences. The theoretical background explores usability and performance metrics, the fundamental principles of user-centered design (UCD), and a comprehensive analysis of recent literature on identifying usability issues using this approach. The discussion then delves into different methods and approaches for identifying usability issues, showcasing both qualitative and quantitative techniques. The text provides an in-depth exploration of various user research methods, including surveys, interviews, and usability testing. It also delves into the use of tools and frameworks such as eye-tracking and think-aloud protocols. Various data analysis techniques are explored to effectively synthesize user feedback. The paper explores the benefits of incorporating usability feedback into the design and development process to achieve iterative improvements and enhance website performance through UCD. The paper features case studies that demonstrate the successful implementation of UCD and how it has improved performance. The analysis covers the challenges of eliciting usability issues, such as obstacles to obtaining reliable feedback, ethical concerns, and balancing conflicting stakeholder needs. It explores future trends and innovations in usability testing, including the impact of AI and machine learning, emerging user-centered approaches, and the significance of predicting future user behavior. Ultimately, the paper underscores the importance of consistently enhancing usability and performance, while also acknowledging the crucial role of user-centered design (UCD) in driving progress in web development. Designers and developers can enhance the effectiveness, engagement, and responsiveness of websites by embracing a user-centered approach.
Keywords: User-Centered Design (UCD), Usability, Website Performance, Usability Testing, Iterative Design, User Research, Emerging Technologies
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DOI:
10.17148/IJARCCE.2025.14219
