elementcentered
Elementcentered is a term used in design and information architecture to describe an approach that centers on individual elements, rather than users, tasks, or entire systems. In this view, an element is the primary unit of analysis and construction, with emphasis on its properties, behavior, and interactions when composed with others.
Core principles include modularity, explicit interfaces, and composability. Elements have defined states, styling rules, and interaction
Elementcentered design often leverages component-based thinking. It emphasizes reuse and standardization, aligning with design systems and
The approach contrasts with user-centered or task-centered design, which foregrounds human goals. Elementcentered analysis asks: what
Applications span software UI design, web development with component libraries, data visualization dashboards, and documentation systems
Critics argue that too strong an emphasis on elements can hinder alignment with user needs and context;
See also: component-based design, design system, atomic design, modular design.