Universal design

Universal design or inclusive design is an approach to the design of products, services and environments to be usable by as many people as possible regardless of age, ability or situation. It links directly to the political concept of an inclusive society and its importance has been recognised by governments, business and industry.

Previous approaches have been labeled "barrier-free" or "handicapped accessible." These terms connoted an unattractive, separatist solution to accessibility problems. Universal design strives to be a graceful, broad-spectrum solution that helps everyone, not just people with disabilities.

Universal Design is necessary as life expectancy has risen and modern medicine has increased the survival rate of those with significant injuries, illnesses and birth defects. Many times those with severe injuries survive but are left with disabilities that must be accommodated.

Universal Design is a part of everyday living. Designing tables and bars that are wheelchair- and scooter-accessible and having lightweight but sturdy chairs are two simple examples that most people would take for granted. Color-contrast dishware with steep sides assist those with visual problems as well as those with dexterity problems. Cabinets with pull-out shelves that can be adjustable to any level helps those using wheelchairs, people who have back problems, and makes the simple act of reaching easier for everyone.

The Americans with Disabilities Act requires Universal Design for all new and renovated buildings, facilities and transportation. Buildings and facilities must be accessible to everyone including those with disabilities. New buses and vans used for public transportation are to be accessible to people with disabilities. Ramps, color-contrast floors and non-skid entryways are required. Approximately 4% of the parking spaces should be reserved for those with disabilities. Telephones and water fountains must be at different levels to also accommodate everyone. For more information on products and The Americans with Disabilities Act see links below.

Seven principles of universal design

1. Equitable use
2. Flexibility in use
3. Simple and intuitive
4. Perceptible information
5. Tolerance for error
6. Low physical effort
7. Size and space for approach and use

(from the Center for Universal Design)

These principles are broader than that of accessible design.

Examples

• Smooth ground surfaces of entranceways
• Wide interior doors and hallways
• Bright and appropriate lighting, particularly task lighting
• Handles operated with a lever rather than a twisting knob
• Light controls operated with large panels rather than a toggle switch

Design standards

In October 2003, representatives from China, Japan, and South Korea met in Beijing and agreed to set up a committee to define common design standards for a wide range of products and services that are easy to understand and use. Their goal is to publish a standard in 2004 which covers, among other areas, standards on containers and wrappings of household goods (based on a proposal from experts in Japan), and standardization of signs for public facilities, a subject of particular interest to China as it prepares to host the 2008 Summer Olympics.

The International Organization for Standardization and the International Electrotechnical Commission have developed:

• Guide 71 Guidelines for standards developers to address the needs of older persons and persons with disabilities (abstract only - fee for entire text)

These standards are still under development:

• ISO 20282-1 – Ease of operation of everyday products — Part 1: Context of use and user characteristics
• ISO 20282-2 – Ease of operation of everyday products — Part 2: Test method

See also

• Accessibility
• Ergonomics
• Industrial design
• Usability
• US – Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
• UK – Disability Discrimination Act
• Europe – EIDD Stockholm Declaration[1]

External links

• Trace Research and Development Center
• Center for Universal Design (1997). The Principles of Universal Design, Version 2.0. Raleigh, NC: North Carolina State University." These principles were compiled by Bettye Rose Connell, Mike Jones, Ron Mace, Jim Mueller, Abir Mullick, Elaine Ostroff, Jon Sanford, Ed Steinfeld, Molly Story, and Gregg Vanderheiden.
• Universal Design Centre at Sheridan
• AARP Home Design
• Univeral design examples – PBS' Freedom Machines film
• Design Council Inclusive Design Design Council UK's one stop shop information resource on inclusive design.
• The Include Programme supports people working to make inclusive (universal) design a reality.
• The Helen Hamlyn Research Centre research in inclusive design
• The Cambridge Engineering Design Centre research in inclusive design
• RSA Inclusive Design Inclusive Design best practice database which covers environments, products, services and communication.
• Universal Design in Practice
• http://www.design-for-all.org EIDD website explains the history and philosophy of Design for All