Thursday

Universal Design

Universal design
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 circumstance. It links directly to the political concept of an inclusive society and its importance has been recognized by governments, business and industry.

Examples
Smooth ground surfaces of entranceways, without stairs
Wide interior doors and hallways
Lever handles for opening doors rather than twisting knobs
Light switches with large flat panels rather than small toggle switches
Buttons on control panels that can be distinguished by touch
Bright and appropriate lighting, particularly task lighting
Auditory output redundant with information on visual displays
Visual output redundant with information in auditory output
Contrast controls on visual output
Use of meaningful icons as well as text labels
Clear lines of sight (to reduce dependence on sound)
Volume controls on auditory output
Speed controls on auditory output
Choice of language on speech output
Ramp access in swimming pools
Closed captioning on television networks