Empathic Design as a Framework for Creating Meaningful Experiences

Tellez, F.A. & González-Tobón, J. (2019). Empathic design as a framework for creating meaningful experiences. In Bohemia, E., Gemser, G., Fain, N., de Bont, C. & Assoreira A. R. (Eds.), Conference proceedings of the Academy for Design Innovation Management: Research Perspectives In the era of Transformations (908-918), 19-21 June, London, UK: Academy for Design Innovation Management. https://doi.org/10.33114/adim.2019.03.408

Abstract

This paper introduces empathic design as a framework and a strategy that can be adopted by the emerging field of experience design (XD) to create meaningful experiences connected with people’s lives and needs.

The paper presents the rationale behind the emergence of empathic design, the traits that characterize this approach to design, a collection of empathic design methods and practices, and a critical discussion of the limitations of empathy in design.

Methodologically, this paper is based on a systematic literature review on empathic design, human-centered design, and empathy, which is synthesized and focused on its application in experience design.

Ultimately, this paper intends to contribute to the broader discussion of how traditional design practices adapt and evolve to respond to new realities and how new design paradigms are needed to address the complex challenges we face in the 21st century.

Keywords: Empathic design, Experience design, Human-centered design, Empathy, Soft skills.

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