Overlooked by Design: Challenges and Opportunities of Incorporating Human-Centred Perspectives and EDI in IT Development In the AI Boom

Abstract

[from Introduction] Over the past decades, Information Technology (IT) has transformed nearly every aspect of daily life, changing how people communicate, learn, work, and socialise. IT systems are now deeply embedded in everyday routines, from widespread internet access and social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to essential tools such as Gmail, WhatsApp, and online shopping services (Campbell-Kelly et al.). How-ever, a problem remains: the frequent oversight of Human-Centered De-sign (HCD) in IT development. Historically, IT development has focused more on technical performance, efficiency, and rapid deployment— often at the expense of considering user perspectives (Cajander). Integrating Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) principles into IT development amplifies these challenges. In this chapter, “integrating EDI into AI” refers to the deliberate embedding of equality, diversity, and inclusion considerations throughout data design, algorithm development, stakeholder engagement, and governance, to ensure that AI systems mitigate bias and serve diverse communities fairly. And yet, integrating EDI is vital to prevent technology from perpetuating or exacerbating structural inequities, particularly for marginalised communities.