Refers to products and designs that are easy to use by people of all ages and varying abilities.
Extends the idea of barrier-free design to cover the needs of all members of society, including children and seniors.
In web design Universal Design means to design a website or course so that anyone using any kind of Web browsing technology can get a full and complete understanding of the information contained there, as well as have the full and complete ability to interact with the site. Universal Design calls for the development of information systems flexible enough to accommodate the needs of the broadest range of users of computers and telecommunications equipment, regardless of age or disability.
Various sources list the Seven Basic Principles of Universal Design"” 1. Equitable Use (design it fair): Flexibility in Use (design it adjustable): Simple and Intuitive Use (design it elegant): Perceptible Information (design it obvious): Tolerance for Error (design it safe): Low Physical Effort (design it easy): Size and Space for Approach and Use (design it reasonable)
Term originating in the USA and underpinned by seven principles set out by architect and designer Ron Mace. It extends barrier-free design and universal access to include access to products and services and has been taken up enthusiastically in Japan.
The design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design.
features are design options that provide access to senior citizens, wheel chair bound and others with special needs. These options include 36" wide exterior doors, bathroom grab bars, low threshold showers, varying height for cabinet and work counters. In addition access can be adjusted for hallways, lights, thermostats, electrical lights, switches and plumbing fixtures. Incorporating options such as lever handed door handles, D rings for cabinets, rocker style switches, hand held shower head and big face phones can give immeasurable quality to people's lives.
An approach to design that aims to maximise the ‘usabilityÂ' (see below), inclusiveness and adaptability of products and services across all age ranges and levels of physical ability. An important field of ‘applied researchÂ' (see above).
Term originating in the USA and underpinned by 7 principles set out by Architect and Designer Ron Mace. Taken up enthusiastically in Japan. Extends the concepts of Barrier-Free Design and Universal Access to include access to products and services.
Designing programs, services, tools, and facilities so that they are usable, without additional modification, by the widest range of users possible, taking into account a variety of abilities and disabilities.
the design and production of products that promote equal opportunity for use by individuals with or without disability.
Is an approach for designing environments and products so that they are usable by all individuals to the fullest extent possible. Go to top of page
Designing for the largest audience possible regardless of disability or ability to speak the native language. This is a process rather than an end in itself.
Architectural design permitting accessibility.
Universal design should be invisible and, at the same time, accommodate a wide variety of people of all ages and statures. It allows access to a richer life by eliminating disability by design. This thoughtful approach to space and barriers allows the maximum number of people to use the widest variety of products in their homes for the greatest length of time.
Universal design, which is related to "inclusive design" and "design for all," 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 recognized by governments, business and industry.
