Universal Design

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Universal design means planning to build physical, learning and work environments so that they are usable by a wide range of people, regardless of age, size or disability status.  While universal design promotes access for individuals with disabilities, it also benefits others.

Why consider universal design?

UB is legally required to ensure that our work and learning environments are accessible for individuals with disabilities, and we understand that accessibility is essential to an inclusive environment. Creating accessible physical spaces, electronic content and learning environments requires additional thought and planning at the beginning stages. It is much easier, however, to plan for accessibility at the outset than to attempt to retrofit an inaccessible space, program or course to make it accessible. Universal design benefits a wide range of people with varying learning styles, preferences and abilities.

Universal design in action.

Universal design improves access and outcomes for everyone in a variety of situations. Some examples include:

  • Curb cuts and power-assisted doors are necessary for access for people with mobility impairments. They also benefit a worker transporting items with a cart, a parent pushing a small child in a stroller, someone using a wheeled briefcase, and a person carrying a bulky item trying to open an exterior door.
  • Individuals who have hearing impairments require captions to access information presented by audio. Captions also benefit someone who wants to watch a video in a library or a quiet office environment without disturbing others. English language learners may also have an increased comprehension of the information where captions are provided.
  • Websites designed with well-organized content and keyboard navigation benefit individuals using screen readers and those with learning disabilities. It will also be easier to follow and more visually appealing for everyone. 
Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access

UB’s  engages in research and design focused on advancing equity and inclusion. They create person-centered tools, programs and environments, and share these practices with change makers in universities, organizations and communities.