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We suggest that there are seven key elements to Universal Design.
- A design that is equitable
- A design that is flexible enough to accommodate our differences
- A design that is simple and intuitive
- A design that is perceptible and informative
- A design that minimises errors
- A designed product that requires low physical effort
- A design providing appropriate size and space.
Equitability
Universal designs express the same meaning regardless of a person's ability, for instance, the main pedestrian entrance to a building, means, the main entrance to a building, regardless of a person's ability.
Flexibility
A universal design accommodates the widest group of individual's preferences and abilities, and it does this by providing a range choices, rather than simply applying the statistical averages. For example, left and right handed automated teller machines.
Simplicity
A universal design is complicated design by reason of its inherently designed simplicity. It is a design that is purposefully easy to apprehend regardless of the end user's experience, knowledge, language skills or concentration levels. Universal signage is a reasonable example of simplicity.
Perceptability
Universal design communicates the necessary information available to the user, regardless of the user's abilities, for instance, TGSI's can be used to indicate a hazard, or entry doors can be activated by voice or movement, with appropriately intuitive configurations inherent in the design informing the user of those capabilities.
Low susceptibility to Error
Universal designs seek to reduce the potential for error by providing fail safe alternatives, for instance a bell button on a lift or button operated automated doors.
Effortlessness
A universal design can be used effectively and comfortably while minimising fatigue, for instance, providing rest spots on stairways, access ways and ramps, as well as handrails for assistance.
Proportionality
Universal designs provide size and space proportions to each user regardless of their body size, posture or mobility. Widened doorways being a simple instance of this technique.
Sydney Access Consultants (Malaysia) PLT
Level 6, Menara Darussalam, 12 Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
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The Construction Industry Council (CIC) is the UK's representative forum for the professional bodies, research organisations and specialist business associations in the construction industry. It has published a new "Essential Principles Guide for Creating an Accessible and Inclusive Environment" which aims to support, guide and motivate clients, developers and contractors to achieve high standards of access and inclusion in all their projects.
If leaders in the construction industry champion inclusion from the outset, those employed to design, construct and manage projects are more likely to achieve high quality accessible and inclusive developments.
Building owners and developers will greatly benefit by generating a development that will:
- Place people at the heart of the design process
- Acknowledge diversity and difference
- Offer choice where a single solution cannot accommodate all users
- Provide for flexibility in use
- Create an environment that is convenient and enjoyable for everyone to use.
Inclusive design does not need to increase costs. If planned and integrated into the client’s business case from the outset it can be cost neutral. Redesign and post completion retrofitting can be very expensive, can lead to compromise and inefficiencies, and even legal redress if discrimination is the result. Access by design will generally provide a much improved user experience where independence and dignity can be reliably maintained, compared to relying on management arrangements, such as the need for a member of staff to operate a portable ramp.
Sydney Access Consultants are committed to removing the barriers to access, one step at a time.
Sydney Access Consultants (Malaysia) PLT
Level 6, Menara Darussalam, 12 Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50450 Kuala Lumpur