To meet the needs of aging users and the prerequisites of innovators in the design process lessons learned from three pilot projects

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to analyze cases where participatory design with different stakeholder groups was a beacon in the development of innovations. An important aspect was a strong foundation both in the needs of the elderly and in the feasibility from the market side. Three cases were analyzed from aspects as: environment and development phase of product; participation of different stakeholders; and proxy involvement of care professionals. The impact of this approach is a benefit for aging end-users as well as increased feasibility for the innovation companies, as a result when collaboration of different stakeholders focuses on balancing the demands of the users and the prerequisites of the industry.