How does iterative design contribute to usability?

Iterative design significantly enhances usability by incorporating changes influenced by structured testing and user feedback throughout the design process. This approach allows designers to assess a product's effectiveness and usability at multiple stages, rather than waiting until the final product is completed. By integrating user insights and testing results, designers can identify usability issues early and make informed adjustments that improve the overall user experience.

This responsive process ensures that the final design aligns more closely with actual user needs and behaviors, resulting in a product that is more intuitive and easier to use. In contrast, approaches that restrict changes until after product release or focus solely on aesthetic criteria do not effectively address user interaction or practical functionality, potentially leading to reduced usability. Additionally, prioritizing the designers' preferences rather than user input can further detract from the overall user experience, making iterative design a key factor in enhancing usability.