Architecture and Environment
The most common application of universal design is in creating user-centric public environments, such as buildings, public outdoor spaces, community facilities, and community amenities. In recent years, different countries and cities have progressed from creating barrier-free environments to embracing universal design in community planning. User-centric and universal design begin at the initial design stage, where designers consider comprehensively the needs and usage of all users, including the elderly, families, people with disabilities, and others. This approach reduces the need for further adaption or adding specialised design after the completion of the facility or the built environment.
Products and Services
Universal design can be applied in different fields, including products and services. For example, the Japanese government encourages companies to apply universal design to their products and services, and has established guidelines.
Panasonic Holdings Corporation of Japan considers various usage scenarios and consumer needs when designing its electrical products. It applies universal design to enhance convenience for its customers.
Japan Airlines considers the different needs of passengers taking their flights in service provision, including aircraft cabin design, seating design, and signage design. The company also regularly conducts training and workshops related to universal design for its employees.
In Hong Kong, for example, restaurants can take reference to and apply the recommendations listed in the publication of the Equal Opportunities Commission,“How to Support Persons with Disabilities: Practical Guide on Universal Design for Catering Services”, to take a step forward in addressing the diverse needs of different diners, including persons with disabilities, the elderly, families with elderly and children, etc. The application can be in various aspects of restaurant, including operations workflow, facilities, and service arrangements, etc. Furthermore, universal design can be widely applied to service and product design across different sectors.
Information and Technology
Apple Inc. adopts inclusive design principles when developing their products to create an ecosystem that accommodates the diverse needs of different users. They avoid overly complex services and products, instead focusing on creating straightforward and user-friendly solutions that are accessible and easy for everyone to operate. This design approach not only addresses the varied needs of different users but also fully embodies the principles of universal design.
When designing its technology information services and products, Google adheres to its universal design standards. In addition to ensuring information accessibility for people with disabilities, their products also facilitate communication and interactions between individuals from different racial and linguistic backgrounds, making the services and products convenient for everyone to use.
Guidelines or regulations related to accessibility in various regions
- Universal Design index Self Assessment Framework, Building and Construction Authority, Singapore, 2022
- Guide to Universal Design index, Building and Construction Authority, Singapore, 2022
- Six Principles of Dementia-Friendly Neighbourhood, Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities, Singapore, 2020
- Universal Design Guide for Public Places, Building and Construction Authority, Singapore, 2016
- Universal Design Guide, Building and Construction Authority, Singapore, 2007
- Universal Design Guidelines (Commercial Buildings), Building and Construction Authority, Singapore, 2006
