Universal Design

Seven Principles of Universal Design
1. Equitable Use: The design is useful and marketable to any group of users.

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.

4. Perceptible Information: The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user.

5. Tolerance for Error: The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintentional actions.

6. Low Physical Effort: The design can be used efficiently and comfortably.

7. Size and Space for Approach and Use: Appropriate size and space is provided for approach and use.

The 7 Principles of Universal Design were developed in 1997 by a working group of architects, product designers, engineers and environmental design researchers, led by the late Ronald Mace in the North Carolina State University.The purpose of the Principles is to guide the design of environments, products and communications. According to the Center for Universal Design in NCSU, the Principles "may be applied to evaluate existing designs, guide the design process and educate both designers and consumers about the characteristics of more usable products and environments."

Retrieved 8 September 2009 from, http://universaldesign.ie/exploreampdiscover/the7principles