Universal Design is the framework
for creative solutions.
Once we begin to visualize the
ADA in terms of Universal Design which proposes that if
buildings, products and services or just about anything
else in our society is designed with all users in mind,
including the more than 54 million Americans with disabilities,
only then will we realize that everyone benefits.
Universal Design is a worldwide movement
that approaches the design of the environment, products,
and communications with the widest range of users in mind.
Known elsewhere in the world as design for all, life span
design, and inclusive design the philosophy of Universal
Design dates back three decades to the U.S. disability rights
movement and its seven governing principles, which call
for designed environments that are equitable, flexible,
intuitive, perceptible, safe, easy, and accommodating, were
crafted during the past decade.
The accessibility laws focus on people
within a narrow range of specific disabilities, such as
those who use wheelchairs or have visual or hearing impairments
while Universal design comes from incorporating these guiding
principles into the planning process.
There are no specific goals to achieve;
there is instead a framework for creating solutions.