A Systematic Literature Review of Design Thinking Approach for User Interface Design

Abstract

User interface is an influential element in software applications. A well-designed user interface will potentially increase the usability of software applications. Therefore, user interface designers should have a deliberate thought when considering which approach and method they would implement for designing user interface. Design thinking is currently one of the widely followed approach in user interface design practices. Hence, this study was aimed to explore research trend and current practices of design thinking approach for user interface design. This study was conducted by employing a systematic literature review following Kitchenham method. This study found 39 articles that were deemed relevant to the design thinking approach. In general, our study found five common stages broadly mentioned in the articles i.e.empathize, define, ideate, prototype, and test. The most widely practiced method during each of those five stages is interview, user persona, brainstorming, user interface, and usability testing. However, there is no consensus on what kind of stage(s) and which particular method(s) that should be employed when following design thinking approach for user interface design. Therefore, it will depend on the decision of the designer in choosing which stage(s) and their relatedmethod(s) that will be employed.