Nowadays, various companies and countries are incorporating universal design. However, many people may not understand the outline or meaning of universal design.
In this article, we will provide an overview of universal design, how it differs from barrier-free, and the history of universal design. We will also introduce the seven major principles of universal design, so please refer to them.
What is universal design?
First, let’s take a look at an overview of universal design. Universal design refers to products, environments, services, information, etc. that are designed to be easily accessible to everyone.
Universal design was developed to enable people of all abilities and backgrounds to maximize their social participation, self-expression, and daily life. Although universal design is closely related to barrier-free design and accessibility, it is characterized by the pursuit of a more comprehensive system that everyone can use independently.
What is the difference between universal design and barrier-free?
In conclusion, although universal design and barrier-free design may seem similar at first glance, they are different. Barrier-free design is primarily used to solve specific problems for people with physical disabilities.
Universal design, on the other hand, is different in that it pursues designs that are convenient and easy to use for as many people as possible, regardless of whether they have a disability or not. It makes sense to understand that universal design is a broader approach that targets the entire population and is more inclusive than barrier-free design.
History of universal design
In fact, the concept of universal design dates back to the 20th century. However, it is only recently that universal design has become more widely recognized.
In the 1960s, architect Ronald Mace first proposed the term “universal design.” Ronald Mace established principles for designing buildings for people with disabilities to make them accessible to everyone. These are the seven principles of universal design, which will be explained later.
Since then, universal design has spread to various fields and has a history of being accepted as a design that benefits a wide range of people, not just people with disabilities.
Types of universal design
Universal design is used in various fields. From here, we will introduce the main types of universal design.
Universal design in information
Universal design in information is a design that improves communication and information access. For example, it applies to any medium that conveys information, such as text, websites, web applications, and graphics.
It is characterized by the fact that it is designed with consideration given to the font and size of text, website navigation, visual presentation of information, etc. by businesses providing web-related services.
Universal design in things
Universal design for things is design related to the design of products and devices. For example, wheelchairs, kitchen utensils, electronic devices, transportation systems, etc. are examples of universal design.
They are characterized by a design that accommodates user diversity, allowing people with different physical abilities to use the same product.
Why is universal design necessary?
By the way, although universal design is widely recognized, why is it necessary in the first place? In conclusion, there are many reasons why universal design is necessary, but here we will explain the main reasons.
Because we have a declining birthrate and aging society.
Many countries, including Japan, are experiencing declining birthrates and aging populations, and the proportion of elderly people is increasing. Elderly people in particular are prone to physical limitations, and universal design plays a role in supporting the lives of the elderly and promoting independence. Services that are easy for the elderly to use using universal design have the advantage of encouraging social participation of the elderly and improving the quality of life for families with elderly people.
Because globalization is progressing
Next, increasing globalization is another reason why universal design is necessary. In modern times, globalization is progressing, and people with different cultures, languages, communication methods, and other diverse backgrounds coexist in the same environment.
Therefore, universal design has the advantage of being able to accommodate different cultures and diversity. Additionally, for companies aiming to enter overseas markets, providing services that use universal design can be said to be a condition for international competitiveness.
To guarantee the rights of people with disabilities
Universal design is also very important to guarantee the rights of people with disabilities. Many international legal instruments, such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), emphasize the equal rights of people with disabilities.
Universal design helps reduce discrimination and social exclusion for people with disabilities, and is also used as a means to provide equal opportunities for participation.
Of course, the above is similar to the idea of barrier-free, but since universal design is aimed at ensuring that people with disabilities can spend their time equally, universal design allows people with disabilities to participate more equally in society. It can be said that it is completed.
Seven principles of universal design
So far, we have explained the outline of universal design and why it is necessary. Here we will introduce the seven principles of universal design.
Let’s look at each in turn.
1. Anyone can use it fairly
The first principle of universal design is to design for fair use by all. By adhering to the principle of equity, services and products are equally available to everyone, regardless of age, physical ability, cultural background, or language differences.
For example, uniform access, a user-friendly interface, and a multilingual website are examples of the first principle.
2. High degree of freedom
Next, a high degree of freedom is also a principle of universal design. High freedom means providing users with choice and flexibility.
For example, universal design allows you to set the font size and customize
default
settings. Make sure that service providers offer features and options that users can tailor to their preferences and needs.
3. Easy to use
Third, it is easy to use. This is a very important principle for making it easy for users to understand and use your product or service. A simple, easy-to-understand and intuitive interface and easy operation procedures have the advantage of reducing user stress and confusion.
4. You can quickly understand the information you want.
Fourth, users can quickly understand the information they want. It is important that the information you provide is clear and that users can quickly find the information they need. For example, visual design that is easy for anyone to understand and simple, clear communication are important.
5. Does not lead to mistakes or dangers
Fifth, it does not lead to mistakes or dangers. These principles help minimize the risk of users performing incorrect operations or being involved in accidents. For example, the installation of handrails and warning signs to prevent falls are typical examples, and can be said to be introduced in a variety of stores and services.
6. Less burden on the body
Sixth, there is less stress on the body. This principle is to minimize physical strain, and the sixth principle includes eliminating steps for wheelchair users and designing products that are less tiring even when used for long periods of time.
7. Ensuring convenient size and space
The last thing to consider is the size and space that is convenient for use. In particular, cramped spaces and crowded environments are more likely to cause stress and inconvenience to users. It is important to ensure a size and space that is comfortable for everyone, whether they are physically disabled or able-bodied.
summary
In this article, we have explained universal design. Universal design is an important element that allows everyone to live a comfortable and equal social life.
Universal design principles are applied to all aspects of information, products, environments, and services. In order to provide better services in this age of declining birthrate, aging population, and globalization, why not improve your services to incorporate universal design?