Short answer
Integrate Universal Design principles from the very beginning of the design process, rather than planning for 'reasonable adjustments' later.
- Field
- User-Centred Design
- Source
- Research Open (London South Bank University) (2016)
- Method
- Literature Review and Conceptual Analysis
- Evidence
- Strong effect
Designing for the full spectrum of human diversity from the outset, through Universal Design principles, is more effective and inclusive than retrofitting solutions for specific needs. This user-centred design research insight is drawn from a 2016 study published in Research Open (London South Bank University). Using Literature review and conceptual analysis, researchers explored how this design variable affects real-world outcomes. The key design takeaway: Integrate Universal Design principles from the very beginning of the design process, rather than planning for 'reasonable adjustments' later.
Universal Design proactively eliminates barriers, outperforming reactive 'reasonable adjustments'.
Designing for the full spectrum of human diversity from the outset, through Universal Design principles, is more effective and inclusive than retrofitting solutions for specific needs.
Research Open (London South Bank University) · 2016
Key Findings
- 01Universal Design is a proactive, holistic approach that integrates inclusivity from the initial design phase.
- 02The 'reasonable adjustments' model is reactive, often involving retrofitting and potentially creating a tiered system of access.
- 03Designing for diversity benefits all users by eliminating potential barriers that might not be immediately apparent.
Application
Design takeaway
Integrate Universal Design principles from the very beginning of the design process, rather than planning for 'reasonable adjustments' later.
How to apply
When beginning a new design project, conduct research to understand the diverse needs of potential users and apply Universal Design principles to address these needs proactively.
Project actions
- 01When defining your target user, consider a wide range of abilities and needs.
- 02Research the principles of Universal Design and apply them to your design choices.
Method & Evidence
Variables
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- +Provides a strong theoretical argument for Universal Design.
- +Highlights the limitations of a reactive design approach.
Limitations
It can be challenging to fully implement all Universal Design principles in a single project due to scope or resource constraints.
Reliability & validity
The conceptual nature of the paper means reliability and validity are based on the strength of the literature review and logical argumentation rather than empirical data collection.
Think critically
How can the principles of Universal Design be applied to digital interfaces to ensure accessibility for users with a wide range of cognitive and sensory abilities?
Design Principles
"Design for the full spectrum of human diversity from the outset."
This approach shifts the design paradigm from accommodating perceived 'norms' and then making exceptions, to creating environments and products that are inherently usable by everyone. It fosters greater equity and reduces the stigma associated with needing special accommodations.
What This Means for Your Design
It's better to design things so everyone can use them from the start, rather than trying to fix them later for specific people.
How to use in your project
- 1.Reference this research when discussing your design approach and justifying the use of Universal Design principles.
- 2.Use the concept to explain why your design is not just for a specific user group but for a wider population.
Add to My Project
Quick Cite
Paragraph starter
This design project adopts a Universal Design approach, recognizing that proactive design for diverse needs is more effective than reactive 'reasonable adjustments'. As highlighted by Milton et al. (2016), integrating inclusivity from the initial concept phase ensures that products and environments are inherently usable by a broader spectrum of individuals, fostering greater equity and reducing potential barriers.
Source
Research Open (London South Bank University)
Beyond reasonable adjustment: autistic-friendly spaces and Universal Design
journal · 2016
View sourceQuestions About This Research
- What does the research say about universal design proactively eliminates barriers, outperforming reactive 'reasonable adjustments'?
- Integrate Universal Design principles from the very beginning of the design process, rather than planning for 'reasonable adjustments' later. Evidence: Research Open (London South Bank University) (2016).
- Why does "Universal Design proactively eliminates barriers, outperforming reactive 'reasonable adjustments'." matter for design?
- This approach shifts the design paradigm from accommodating perceived 'norms' and then making exceptions, to creating environments and products that are inherently usable by everyone. It fosters greater equity and reduces the stigma associated with needing special accommodations.
- How can designers apply this research?
- Integrate Universal Design principles from the very beginning of the design process, rather than planning for 'reasonable adjustments' later.
- What were the main findings?
- Universal Design is a proactive, holistic approach that integrates inclusivity from the initial design phase.. The 'reasonable adjustments' model is reactive, often involving retrofitting and potentially creating a tiered system of access.. Designing for diversity benefits all users by eliminating potential barriers that might not be immediately apparent.
- What research method was used?
- Literature Review and Conceptual Analysis.
- How strong is the evidence?
- Evidence strength is rated Strong effect, based on a 2016 journal from Research Open (London South Bank University).
- What should I do differently in my next project?
- When beginning a new design project, conduct research to understand the diverse needs of potential users and apply Universal Design principles to address these needs proactively.
- What are the limitations?
- The paper focuses on conceptual analysis and literature review, rather than empirical testing of specific design interventions.