Accessible and Universal Design

According to the Center for Universal Design at North Carolina State University, universal design is "the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design. There are 7 Universal Design Principles, and Design Freedom, Inc. refers to these principles in its work.

Universal Design Principles

equitable use

the design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities

flexibility in use

the design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities

simple and intuitive

use of the design is easy to understand, regardless of the user's experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level

perceptible information

the design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user's sensory abilities

tolerance for error

the design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions

low physical effort

the design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum of fatigue

size and space for approach and use

appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of user's body size, posture, or mobility