Definition
Inclusive design is an approach to creating products, services, environments, and experiences that are accessible and usable by as many people as possible, regardless of age, ability, or other factors. It aims to address diversity and eliminate barriers to participation, considering a wide range of human needs and capabilities throughout the design process.
Example
OXO Good Grips
The development of the OXO Good Grips kitchen utensils in 1990 is a classic example of inclusive design. Sam Farber created these tools with large, soft-grip handles after observing his wife’s difficulty using standard kitchen tools due to arthritis. The resulting product line was not only easier for people with arthritis to use but also more comfortable for everyone, leading to widespread commercial success.
Ask yourself
- Who might be excluded by my current design?
- How can I incorporate diverse perspectives into my design process?
- What assumptions am I making about my users’ abilities or experiences?
- How can my design be flexible enough to accommodate different needs?
- Have I considered potential barriers to access or use?
Tools
- Personas and user journey mapping
- Empathy mapping
- Co-design workshops
- Accessibility audits
- Universal Design principles
- IDEO’s Human-Centered Design Toolkit
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