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2021: Creating a Lexicon of Future
U is for Universal Design
Universal Design is the design and composition of an environment so that it can be accessed, understood and used to the greatest extent possible by all people regardless of their age, size, ability or disability. An environment (or any building, product, or service in that environment) should be designed to meet the needs of all people who wish to use it. This is not a special requirement, for the benefit of only a minority of the population. It is a fundamental condition of good design. If an environment is accessible, usable, convenient and a pleasure to use, everyone benefits. By considering the diverse needs and abilities of all throughout the design process, universal design creates products, services and environments that meet peoples’ needs. Simply put, universal design is good design. ~ What is Universal Design
- Equitable Use: provides the same means of use for all users with diverse abilities, and design is appealing to everyone
- Flexibility in Use: design to accommodate a wide range of preferences and abilities
- Simple & Intuitive: easy to understand and use regardless of the user’s experiences, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level
- Perceptible Information: communicates necessary info effectively, regardless of surrounding conditions or sensory abilities
- Tolerance for Error: minimizes hazards and adverse consequences of unintended actions
- Low Physical Effort: efficient and comfortable while minimizing chance of fatigue
- Size & Space for Approach & Use: design provides appropriate size and space regardless of the user’s body size, posture, or mobility
