Inclusive Design
What is it?
“Sometimes called universal design, inclusive design considers as many people’s needs and abilities as possible. Instead of assuming a one-size-fits-all user experience, inclusive design aims to please a diverse range of individuals and accommodate a variety of experiences and ways of interacting with the world.
Inclusive design recognizes that our needs shift with time and circumstance, so it anticipates different ways an individual might interact with the world as life goes on. Ageing permanent or temporary disability, carrying a load of grocery bags, pushing a stroller, or sitting in a business meeting are some examples of circumstances that impact how you interact with the world around you — circumstances that might change what you do or how you do things.” – Eone
Problem
Inclusive Design is not about designing for the disabled, it is to recognise diversity and uniqueness. We gotta admit, “good design” is usually largely intended for certain people. But we must now realise that it is a social responsibility to keep diversity in mind when designing products and experiences. The world can make itself a better place by being aware and helping one another out.
So, how did this come about? The idea first appeared in the sixties and was described by the pioneer of Inclusive Design, Ronald Mace, as “the concept of designing all products and the built environment to be aesthetic and usable to the greatest extent possible by everyone, regardless of their age, ability, or status in life.”
He also mentioned that “We tend to discount people who are less than what we popularly consider to be “normal.” To be “normal” is to be perfect, capable, competent, and independent. Unfortunately, designers in our society also mistakenly assume that everyone fits this definition of “normal.” This just is not the case.”
Our Take
All in all, we at mü interior think it is ok to be “special”. It motivates our people from designers to the business team to the execution team to design and provide products and services that are accessible to and usable by as many people as reasonably possible. We can then expect better products and services that reduce exclusion, hence being inclusive.
Even if we don’t design, can we make a similar contribution? Of course, we can. Small acts of inclusion can create cultural transformation. In a workplace, everyday things we do with our co-workers can be part of it. Offering small affirmation or acknowledgement, whether displayed privately or openly or soliciting opinions or connecting on a personal level can encourage feelings of inclusion.
That is also why every day we, here, never stop challenging ourselves, researching possibilities, always on the yearning for something new. About human behaviour, acceptance and learning how to build better relationships and characters. Together, we can make a positive contribution to the society.
Do you have any ideas in mind that encourage inclusion? Share with us!
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