Designing for all users
With more organizations committed to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in their workplaces, it’s crucial to extend efforts beyond just meeting the standard requirements for compliance. While many businesses focus on diversity and equity, true inclusion can get left behind, especially for those whose age, size, ability or disability require different supports.
Most organizations are good at adhering to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) legal requirements and many are improving at providing “reasonable accommodations.” But there’s so much more that can be done to ensure accessibility and inclusion for everyone. It’s important to take a proactive approach not just for your employees, but for your customers too. That is where Universal Design comes into play. Universal Design is the design and composition of an environment so that it can be accessed, understood and used to the greatest extent possible by all people, regardless of their age, size, ability or disability.
Many organizations think that meeting accommodation requests is enough. However, this reactive measure can single people out, often putting the burden on them to make the request and educate others about their needs. This can leave them feeling uncomfortable and stigmatized. Waiting for accommodation can also delay processes and create a negative employee or customer experience.
By designing with everyone in mind from the beginning, organizations can remove these challenges and prevent exclusion. So, what does this proactive approach look like?
The 7 Principles of Universal Design
- Equitable use: The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities. For example, power doors with sensors at entrances are convenient for all users.
- Flexibility in use: The design accommodates a wide range of preferences and abilities. For example, scissors designed for both right- and left-handed users.
- Simple and intuitive use: The design is easy to understand, regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, language skills or current concentration level. For example, universal symbols for elevators, restrooms and transportation.
- Perceptible information: The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user’s sensory abilities. For example, tactile indicators on keyboards or alternative text for images.
- Tolerance for error: The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions. For example, a double-cut car key that fits into a recessed keyhole in multiple orientations.
- Low physical effort: The design can be used efficiently and comfortably with a minimum of fatigue. For example, ramps to buildings and door handles that do not require grip strength to open are accessible to everyone.
- Size and space for approach and use: Appropriate size and space are provided for approach, reach, manipulation and use regardless of the user’s body size, posture or mobility. For example, adjustable-height service counters and automated sinks.
As organizations strive to advance their inclusion efforts, it’s essential to move beyond reactive accommodations and embrace universal design principles. By intentionally integrating accessibility into your workplace environment, you not only meet legal requirements but also create a culture of inclusion and innovation that benefits everyone.
Let’s challenge ourselves to create organizations where accessibility is a given, not an afterthought. Because everyone deserves equal access and opportunity.
About the author
Ivy Cirillo is a board member of Pathways to Inclusive & Equitable Workplaces. Learn more about the work of the nonprofit organization at pathwaysdei.org
