This brief provides an overview of human-centered design (HCD) as a participatory, user-centered research method and shares do’s and don’ts about selecting and using HCD. Resilience and Food Security Activity implementers and USAID Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance advisors can use these considerations when reviewing information gaps and research protocols or a statement of work to determine whether HCD is the appropriate research method. They can also use these considerations if HCD has been selected. Additional resources on HCD are highlighted for those interested in learning more.