The final user of a product or service, often a human or non-human entity that utilizes the output of a system.
Description
In the context of Non-Human Identities (NHIs), the term 'End-User' refers to any entity, whether human or non-human, that directly engages with or benefits from the use of a product, service, or system. NHIs can include automated systems, bots, artificial intelligences, IoT devices, and other non-human entities that perform tasks or require interaction with software and hardware. End-Users may not be involved in the design or development of the technology they utilize, but they are critical in determining its usability and effectiveness. In scenarios where NHIs are involved, understanding the needs and behaviors of these entities is essential for developers and businesses to create solutions that are efficient and impactful. The role of an end-user in this context emphasizes the importance of designing technology that can seamlessly integrate with non-human identities, ensuring that the systems are responsive and adaptable to their requirements.
Examples
- A smart thermostat that autonomously adjusts temperature settings based on environmental data.
- A chatbot that interacts with customers and processes requests without human intervention.
Additional Information
- End-Users can significantly influence product development through their interaction patterns.
- The rise of AI and IoT has expanded the concept of end-users to include a diverse range of non-human entities.
References
- The case for using non-human personas in design
- Non-human and non-user personas for life-centred design
- Human vs. Non-Human Identity in SaaS
- Usees
- The user as relational entity: Options that deeper insight into user representations opens for human-centered design
- Words Matter. Talk About People: Not Customers, Not Consumers, Not Users
- Human-computer non-interaction: the activity of non-use
- View of People Are Not Users
- What kinds of users are there? Identity and identity descriptions
- Tell me who you are, by Vinay Gupta - Mattereum - Humanizing the Singularity - Medium