Abstract

Today design solutions have to meet the real needs and expectations of everyday users. Bearing this in mind, it is necessary to understand people and their experiences, and to involve them in the design process whenever possible. In this article, an empirical study led in the field of graphic design will be presented. Our intention was to know and understand the potential users of an interactive printed object capable of motivating and improving the contact between such users and a new city and, therefore, a new culture. A user-centred design methodology based on an iterative cycle was adopted. It began with a series of preliminary interviews that led to a probing exercise, and later to a usability study of a primary prototype and its redesign. The outcome of this process was the “Inside Lisboa” kit, a useful, functional, and enjoyable object that meets the needs and expectations of its users, and helps to make the visit to Lisbon into a memorable experience. With this study, we hope to prove the true value and the benefits that an approach based on the principles and methods of user-centred design may have in a graphic design project.