7 principles of universal design
Ronald L. Mace is the most important figure for Universal Design.
He was the founder of Universal Design with a focus on products, housing and built environments.
Universal Design minimizes the need for assistive technology. These designs can be used by the masses, not just people with disabilities.
He led the development of the 7 principles of Universal Design at NC State University 1 year before passing away.
Equitable use. Standing desks are able to be lowered or raised for standing or sitting, but also to adjust to a specific height for any user.
Flexibility in use. Swivel vegetable peelers with large handles can be used by right or left-handed users, and for people who struggle with smaller, hard-to-grip handles.
Simple and intuitive. Hand-held showerheads allow users to move the source of water around their body instead of moving their body around a wet surface.
Perceptible information. Handicap parking spaces are always located near the entrance of a building, a painted icon in the parking space, painted lines around them, an icon on the sign, "Reserved Parking" on the sign and they consistently use high contrast blue and white colors.
Tolerance for error. Crosswalks with visual cues and audio accompanied by curb ramps with bumps minimizes the risk of crossing at a dangerous time.
Low physical effort. Automatic doors can be used easily by anyone while using less effort than regular doors.
Size and space for approach and use. Step-free entry ways with wide doorways and lever handles show clearly how a person of varying abilities can enter.
This page on NCSU's website has a more in-depth description plus guidelines of Universal Design.
