According to the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP), 40% of the CPACC exam covers “Accessibility and Universal Design.” But what exactly is universal design? And why is it so important?

Let’s explore the concept, its origins, and the principles that guide it.

A Brief History of Universal Design

The term universal design was first coined by Ronald Mace, an American architect, product designer, and lifelong advocate for accessibility. After contracting polio as a child, Mace used a wheelchair for the rest of his life. He went on to earn a degree in architecture from North Carolina State University. Later he founded the Center for Universal Design at his alma mater.

Mace’s vision was clear: design products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized solutions.

The 7 Principles of Universal Design

Mace’s interdisciplinary team of architects, engineers, product designers, and researchers developed seven key principles to guide the creation of inclusive designs. These principles help evaluate current designs, inform the design process, and educate others on how to create accessible experiences.

1. Equitable Use

The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities.

Guidelines include:

• Provide the same means of use for all users
• Avoid segregating or stigmatizing users
• Make the design appealing to all users

Examples:

• Curb cuts on sidewalks benefit wheelchair users, parents with strollers, and cyclists alike.
• Accessibility features in websites, such as alt text, keyboard navigation, and screen reader compatibility, ensure all users can interact with content equally.

2. Flexibility in Use

The design accommodates a wide range of preferences and abilities.

Guidelines include:

• Provide choice in methods of use
• Accommodate right- or left-handed users
• Allow for individual pace and preferences

Examples:

• Adjustable desks allow people of different heights and mobility levels to work comfortably.
• Customizable interfaces let users change font size or color contrast to suit their needs.

3. Simple and Intuitive Use

The design is easy to understand, regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, language skills, or concentration level.

Guidelines include:

• Eliminate unnecessary complexity
• Be consistent with user expectations
• Present information based on importance
• Offer effective prompts and feedback

Examples:

• Clear navigation menus with intuitive icons
• Guided tutorials in mobile apps that walk users through task completion

4. Perceptible Information

The design communicates essential information effectively, regardless of ambient conditions or sensory abilities.

Guidelines include:

• Provide information in multiple formats (visual, auditory, tactile)
• Ensure adequate contrast
• Differentiate elements in recognizable ways
• Support compatibility with assistive devices

Examples:

• Braille on elevator buttons or signs
• Captions and transcripts for videos to support users with hearing impairments

5. Tolerance for Error

The design minimizes hazards and adverse consequences of unintended actions.

Guidelines include:

• Minimize hazards and errors through thoughtful layout
• Include warnings and alerts
• Incorporate fail-safe features
• Discourage accidental activation of critical functions

Examples:

• Automatic shutoff in appliances to prevent overheating
• Confirmation prompts before deleting files or submitting forms
• Password visibility toggles and password hints

6. Low Physical Effort

The design can be used comfortably with minimal fatigue.

Guidelines include:

• Allow for neutral body positioning
• Minimize repetitive motions
• Require low physical effort to operate

Examples:

• Automatic doors in public spaces
• Touchscreen interfaces that are accessible to users with limited dexterity

7. Size and Space for Approach and Use

The design accommodates users regardless of body size, posture, or mobility.

Guidelines include:

• Ensure clear lines of sight for seated and standing users
• Make all components comfortably reachable
• Allow space for assistive devices and caregivers

Examples:

• Accessible restroom stalls and parking spaces
• Responsive web design that adapts to various screen sizes and input methods

Key Takeaways

Universal design isn’t just about accessibility—it’s about usability for everyone. Many accessible features, like video captions, can fulfill multiple principles, such as equitable use and perceptible information.

By applying the seven principles of universal design, we can create inclusive environments, both physical and digital, that benefit people of all abilities. And for those preparing for the CPACC exam, understanding universal design is a foundational step toward becoming an effective accessibility advocate.