01
Equitable Use
The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities.
Services
Universal Design & Innovation
Universal Design is the design of environments, products, and services to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design. It is the highest expression of accessibility — and the foundation of genuinely exceptional experience design.
Overview
Designing for Everyone, by Design
Universal Design moves beyond accommodation — beyond designing for the average and then adapting for those who do not fit. It begins with the full range of human diversity and designs from there. The result is not just more accessible environments and experiences; it is better environments and experiences for everyone.
What We Do
- Universal Design consultation for new construction and renovation
- Universal Design review of products, services, and systems
- Universal Design principles training and education
- Inclusive design strategy and advisory
- Universal Design integration with organizational excellence frameworks
- Innovation and design thinking for accessibility
Framework
The Seven Principles of Universal Design
02
Flexibility in Use
The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities.
03
Simple and Intuitive Use
Use of the design is easy to understand, regardless of the user's experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level.
04
Perceptible Information
The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user's sensory abilities.
05
Tolerance for Error
The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions.
06
Low Physical Effort
The design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum of fatigue.
07
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, or mobility.
Outcomes
What Organizations Achieve
Better Design for Everyone
Environments, products, and services that work better for everyone — not just people with disabilities.
Future-Proofed Investment
Design decisions that serve a broader range of users over time — including an aging population and people with temporary disabilities.
Innovation Advantage
Organizations that design for the full range of human diversity consistently produce more innovative, more usable, and more successful products and services.
Reduced Retrofit Costs
Designing for universal access from the start is significantly less expensive than retrofitting for accessibility after the fact.
Design for the Full Range of Human Diversity
Contact GAC to discuss how Universal Design principles can transform the way your organization designs environments, products, and services.