End-User

Definition of End-User
The term **end-user** typically refers to the final or ultimate //user// of a product in a chain of production and marketing. It is used to distinguish the developers of a product from the targeted consumer, of which the technological artifact is created. Often, the term //user// would be sufficient.

The end-user may differ from the customer, as the customer may or may not be the final person in the chain of production. This can be demonstrated in the situation of present-giving or reselling. The person receiving the present/product who uses it for personal functional use is considered the //end-user//.

In the design of a consumer-made product, the manufacturer has to consider the needs of the end-user, with regards to reliability, cost and creating a multi-standard. This is key in the design process.

**EULA - End User License Agreement**
In the development of a contract, the **end-user** is defined as the last point in a chain of production, which has no intention of selling the product at hand. In many cases, an [|End User Licence Agreement (EULA)]produced as a legal document between a producer and user of computer software, indicating the specific parameters at which the product may be used.



Participatory Design
End-users are, however, not limited to the last point in a chain of production. In an interactive design process, they can be involved in all parts of the design chain. In Participatory Design, end-users have the option to work with the researchers/designers to help develop or improve upon the usability and functionality of an object.