Submitted by ManuelRothe on Tue, 11/05/2019 - 18:03

The principles of Universal Design refers to broad-spectrum ideas meant to design and develop buildings, products, services and environments that are inherently accessible and usable to everyone. It is defined by the following principles:

  1. Equitable use: the design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities.
  2. Flexibility in use: the design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities.
  3. Simple and intuitive use: use of the design is easy to understand, regardless of the user's experience, knowledge, language skills, or education level.
  4. Perceptible information:  the design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user's sensory abilities.
  5. Tolerance for error: the design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions.
  6. Low physical effort: the design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum of fatigue.
  7. 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, and/or mobility.

These principles are broader than those of "accessible design" and "barrier-free design", two other related concepts.
 

Sources
The principles of Universal Design. 1997
CBM. Inclusive post-disaster reconstruction: Building back safe and accessible for all. 2015.
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