User experience design (UxD) includes Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) design. It is about designing a holistic total user experience, which consists of all aspects of a product or service as perceived by users. HCI design is about the interaction between a human and a computer. UxD also addresses the user's initial awareness and discovery of your product and encompasses ordering, fulfillment, installation, support, service, upgrades, and end-of-life/retirement activities.

User centered design (UCD) is a core principle in Mercati's digital business solutions. We believe that the success of any experience has its foundation in the planning that drives its creation and execution. We realize that sometimes the user experience is subjective in nature, because it is about an individual's feelings and thoughts about the system. Sometimes the user experience is dynamic, because it changes over time as the circumstances change.

To provide a positive user experience, Mercati believes that you have to know your users. What are their expectations and how do they behave? Thought has to be given to the overall experience, from start to finish. Because the user experience can be dynamic, the solution needs to remain flexible. It also needs to be relevant to the customer, providing content and a positive outcome. Mercati believes in testing for efficacy early and often. Feedback on the solution is critical.

Mercati's UxD mantra:

Understanding the purpose of vision

Have a solid integrated vision of the business vision or goals for a product or service.

Get to know your users

Fully understand your users' goals and behaviors.

Observe broadly and think holistically

Observe how a user experiences your product or service. Watch users and learn from them. Reflect on the user's entry and exit points. Observe the user's experience in a detailed manner, get the information required to make critical decisions.

Be relevant

Develop pertinent functionality and content.

Be nimble

Stay engaging, flexible, yet structured.

Be simple

Do away with complexity in the architecture and design. "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication."—Leonardo da Vinci.

Test, test, test

Research and test for validation, efficacy and quality early and often.

Culture of failure and constant improvement

Learn from mistakes. Problems are opportunities for improvement. "That which is measured gets done and that which is rewarded gets done well."