Challenges and Opportunities of the Human-Centered Design Approach: Case Study Development of an Assistive Device for the Navigation of Persons With Visual Impairment

Background Visual impairment (VI) significantly impacts quality of life, particularly in autonomous pedestrian navigation. Limitations in independent navigation lead to frustration, diminished confidence, and risks to bodily integrity for individuals with VI. In Colombia, the pilot country of this study, approximately 2 million people live with some form of visual disability. Globally, only 1 in 10 people requiring assistive devices have access to them, with factors such as deficient product design stemming from limited knowledge of user expectations, local needs, and environmental constraints, posing significant challenges, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Objective We aimed to evaluate the feasibility and limitations of applying the human-centered design (HCD) principles outlined by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9241-210:2019 standard in assistive technology (AT) development for individuals with VI in Colombia. Methods We developed a prototype navigation device using the HCD principles, emphasizing a thorough analysis of user needs and environmental contexts. The project leveraged multidisciplinary collaboration to address challenges associated with user engagement and design adaptability while managing legal and bureaucratic constraints. The navigation system integrates artificial intelligence algorithms, specifically developed by the research team as part of this work, to enhance its adaptability and responsiveness to diverse environments. The development process featured iterative prototyping cycles, incorporating user feedback at each stage, all within the boundaries of applicable regulatory frameworks. Results The development and evaluation of the initial prototype highlighted both the feasibility and key limitations of applying the ISO 9241-210:2019 HCD principles in AT for individuals with VI in the Colombian context. The prototype met several user-defined expectations by prioritizing affordability; extended battery life; autonomy in internet-constrained environments; and improved ergonomics, concealability, aesthetics, and obstacle detection. These achievements demonstrated the potential of HCD to guide context-sensitive innovation. However, the process also revealed significant barriers: limited legal and procedural clarity for engaging users in design phases, difficulties navigating ethics committees, and a lack of practical guidance within the ISO standard itself. These constraints, compounded by challenges in interdisciplinary collaboration, limited the depth and adaptability of user involvement across development stages. Conclusions Implementing HCD principles in AT development shows promise for creating effective and affordable solutions tailored to user needs and contexts. However, legislative and methodological barriers must be addressed to fully realize HCD’s potential. Future efforts should focus on aligning research methodologies with hardware and software development practices whil