Universal Design and Universal Access
May 7 11, 2012 Washington, D.C.
Definition and Context, issues and challenges of ensuring access to infrastructure and operating systems HOW TO ACHIEVE THE CONTINIUM Presented by PHILLIP THOMPSON IDC Consultants
What is Universal Design ?
The design of products, services and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for personal adaptation or special provision. Universal design shall not exclude assistive devices for particular groups of persons with disabilities where this is needed
Universal Design / Access
Relationship with other issues :
Diversity Sustainability
Universal Design / Access
UA is focused on making all environments accessible to all people, throughout thier life
Children Senior citizens and the elderly Persons with mobility limitations Persons with sight limitations Persons with cognitive limitations Persons who are linguistically challenged Pregnant women Persons who have become obese Those who use strollers and prams Those requiring luggage access Inebriated persons Service personnel
The significance of the ICF !
Applied UA
Universal Design Principles
Equitable Use Flexibility in Use Perceptible Information Simple and Intuitive Use Tolerance for Error Low Physical Effort Size and Space for Approach and Use
Universal Design Principles
Equitable Use
convenient for all users Integrated, dispersed and adaptable seating in assembly areas such as sport arenas and theaters
Examples: Power doors with sensors at entrances that are
Universal Design Principles
Flexibility in Use
visual, tactile and audible feedback, a tapered card opening and palm rest
Examples: Scissors designed for right- or left-handed users An automated teller machine (ATM) that has
Universal Design Principles
Perceptible Information
Examples: The blip on the number 5 on telephone keypads Tactile, visual and audible cues and instructions on a air-conditioning thermostat.
Universal Design Principles
Simple and Intuitive Use
Examples: An instruction manual with drawings and no text Emergency call systems and equipment
Universal Design Principles
Tolerance for Error
user to correct mistakes without penalty A double-cut car key easily inserted into a recessed keyhole in either of two ways
Examples: An undo feature in computer software that allows the
Universal Design Principles
Low Physical Effort
Examples: Lever or loop handles on doors and faucets Touch lamps operated without a switch
Universal Design Principles
Size and Space for Approach and Use
Examples: Wide gates at train stations that accommodate all users Controls on the front and clear floor space around appliances, mailboxes, dumpsters and other elements
Universal Design / Access
Relationship with other issues :
Diversity Sustainability Assistive technology
Diversity
Life Cycle Functional Gender Cultural Religious
Sustainability
Is it really a green issue? Should we try to connect it? Does it become diluted?
Assistive Technology
Problems with the Paradigm
Requires a complete paradigm shift Misunderstood concept Limited political support Confusion with ill defined standards Lack of integration in regulations Poor integration in development Perceived aesthetic impact Limited education for professionals
UNIVERSAL DESIGN
Why ?
Simply Correct !
Environments that work for everyone!
Heathrow Terminal 5
Key areas !
Market driven UA
Early intervention
How do we achieve Universally Accessible Environments ?
Ensure executive commitment Develop a well defined UA mandate Develop the UA philosophy as inclusive Optimize UA synergy in mainstream provision Ensure a comprehensive understanding Ensure good technical input and monitoring
What is the relationship between standards regulations and universal design?
Standards should :
Continue as the baseline in accessibility Developed within the inclusive framework Standards should be applied consistently
Universal design should:
Establish synergy in mainstream provision Be used as a vehicle for educating designers
What does it cost?
Keep it simple !
Ouestions ?
Phillip Thompson
Director: IDC Consultants Tel.: +27 21 674 5193 Fax.: +27 86 652 8108 Cell.: +27 83 777 3672 E-Mail: phillipt@idcgroup.co.za Second Floor Sunclare Building 21 Dreyer Street Claremont Cape Town 7708
