Universal design is “the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design” (Mace, 2008, para. 1). UD gives increased access to disabled users, and sometimes better serves the able-bodied, as well. Levers instead of doorknobs are helpful to arthritic seniors and anyone with an armful of groceries. When “universalizing” a design makes it work for all users, universal design is good design.
However, UD doesn’t always produce that effect. Especially when technology is involved, UD often simplifies a product (e.g. cell phones and TV remotes with big buttons and bare bones features.) Although consistent with UD principles, such products don’t meet the needs of sophisticated technology users, who are every bit as much a part of the “universe” as disabled, feeble, or unsophisticated users.
A truly universal design would not favor one class of user over another. Yet UD clearly advocates for citizens perceived as underserved. The wants and needs of able-bodied, literate, and experienced users take a back seat to those of disabled, language-challenged, or inexperienced users.
UD is social engineering wrapped in product engineering. That does not make it bad. Just misnamed.
References
Mace, R. (2008). About UD. Retrieved from
http://www.ncsu.edu/www/ncsu/design/sod5/cud/ab
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