Human-centered design (HCD) is an applied research and design framework for organizational innovation. Though specific definitions vary, HCD typically involves a team of individuals working together to solve a problem through a process that generates a deep sense of understanding and empathy for the end user. While the approach is popular in the technology and private sectors, where it is typically used for rapid product development, little is known regarding what HCD looks like in the context of human services. In this project, the Administration for Children and Families explored the application of HCD across its service delivery programs at the federal, state, and local levels. MEF was a subcontractor to Child Trends on this project.
