Universal Design

Premise: That all products, environments and communications should be designed to consider the needs of the widest possible array of users. It asks designers to incorporate effectiveness, efficiency, and attractiveness for as many people as possible into the process of design. "Universal" implies that the planning, development and implementation of programs and exhibits is inherently attentive to the needs and preferences of diverse knowledge, and flexible enough to successfully accommodate the majority of visitors.

For a real-world example of universal design, read about the work we did on the Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination exhibit at the Museum of Science, Boston.

Parallel Universes: How the Museum brings exhibits like 'Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination to life'—for everyone.

Why Universal Design?

Matters of design confront architects, educators, exhibit planners, product designers, program developers, trainers, and any employee who has contact with people in public places.

People access information in a variety of ways, and typically have one preferred method of learning new things.
While preferred learning styles are a choice for the general public, some methods of presentation are essential for people with disabilities.
When a design works well for people who have specific needs it generally works better for everyone.
Disability is not a special condition of a few but a common condition that most of us encounter at some point in life.
When designing with everyone in mind, usability and aesthetics are not mutually exclusive.

Rationale: Based on a 2003 U. S. Census American Community Survey Summary, it is estimated that over 77 million Americans have some kind of disability. These people are present in every age group, ethnic community, social class, and educational level throughout society. For people with disabilities, a learning style may be an essential adaptation due to an impairment of a sensory or cognitive function. Other people may just prefer to learn information visually, auditorially, kinesthetically, or by having someone demonstrate a particular process. The point is, by offering choices in how information is presented you will include more people in the process of learning. An important thing to remember is that people with disabilities are potential customers or visitors to your organization. If you make your institution welcoming, comfortable, enjoyable, entertaining, and accessible - in other words, universally designed - more members of the community will be able to make use of what you have to offer.

Approach: Universal Design provides multiple points of entry into public spaces, programs, information, and products made for the general public. An understanding of the basic concepts are important because of the various preferred learning styles that exist within all populations; between males and females, among culturally diverse groups, and across the age ranges that may be represented. The fact is that individuals may be unable to utilize information because of the primary format in which it has been framed. If given alternate formats, more people will have access to information, understanding and enjoyment. Access Umbrella can assist your organization with understanding and implementing these concepts through staff training, design consultation, and curriculum and program development.