User-centred design does make a difference. The case of decision support systems in crop production

This paper lends weight to the argument that user-centred design is important in design and development of software systems by describing the case of decision support systems for crop production. Decision support systems (DSS) are increasingly being seen as useful mechanisms for the transfer of scientific knowledge and 'best practice'; particularly in the field of agriculture. Although many systems have been developed, few can be termed 'successful' (i.e. have a significant uptake by intended users, and used by them). This paper provides evidence to support the importance of a user-centred approach by showing that each issue considered to be relevant to the failure of DSS in crop production can be addressed by the appropriate inclusion of users in the design and development process. Positive evidence in the shape of successful systems that have employed UCD is also presented.