What is Inclusive Design? Explaining the Differences from Universal Design with 6 Examples!

Since the enactment of the new Barrier-Free Act in December 2006, the development of public facilities and services has progressed, creating an environment that is easier for people with diverse needs to use.

Alongside initiatives based on such legal frameworks, "inclusive design" is gaining attention.

Inclusive design is a concept of designing in a way that everyone, including people with disabilities, the elderly, and foreigners, can use comfortably.

Unlike traditional designs that assume an "average user," inclusive design actively incorporates the voices and experiences of minorities to create systems that are easier for a wider range of people to use.

This article will clarify the definition of inclusive design and its differences from universal design, and introduce 10 examples from around the world and 7 basic principles. Those who want to correctly understand the differences or are considering implementing them in their projects should find this useful.

1. What is Inclusive Design?

Inclusive design is a concept of designing in a way that everyone, including people with disabilities, the elderly, and foreigners, can use comfortably.

Traditional product development often focused on the "average user with a large market size," which often left the needs of minorities unaddressed.

In contrast, inclusive design deliberately focuses on minority use cases, designing from the experiences and voices of those involved.

1-1. History of Inclusive Design

Inclusive design was proposed in 1994 at the Royal College of Art in London, UK, by Roger Coleman, who was an honorary professor at the time.

The catalyst was the design of a kitchen for a friend who used a wheelchair. Coleman proposed a design that considered height and movement paths to be wheelchair-friendly, but his friend wanted "a stylish kitchen that everyone would envy," not just a functional one.

From this experience, he realized the importance of designing not only for functionality but also for comfort and appeal from the perspective of those involved.

Coleman spread the idea that "design that matches the needs of people with disabilities, which able-bodied people may not notice, is important."

This philosophy, known as "Inclusive Design," spread across Europe and gradually gained traction in Japan.

Reference: About Inclusive Design｜Next Solutions Co., Ltd.

1-2. What is a Lead User?

Lead users are people who participate in inclusive design workshops, including the elderly, people with disabilities, and foreigners.

They are often thought of as "minority users," but in reality, they are experiencing needs that many people will face in the future.

For example, as people age, everyone experiences a decline in vision and physical strength. By focusing on the "inconveniences" and "difficulties" felt by the elderly and disabled, new ideas that will benefit more people in the future can be discovered.

For companies, lead users are valuable partners. By incorporating their voices, products and services that match actual use cases can be developed from the outset, increasing the likelihood of creating hit products.

Many lead users can accurately express their needs in words, providing deep insights that are difficult to obtain through traditional surveys and questionnaires.

Lead users often become enthusiastic fans of the completed products or services. Through word of mouth and reviews, they can naturally promote the product, offering a promotional effect.

2. Differences from Universal Design

Inclusive design is often compared to "universal design." While both aim to "exclude no one," there are significant differences in their origins and approaches.

Universal design spread in the United States in the 1980s, against the backdrop of the "barrier-free" movement of the 1970s. It is a design approach that aims to be "easy to use" for as many people as possible, regardless of age, gender, nationality, or ability.

The term "universal" implies "common to all," so it involves incorporating generic designs.

In contrast, inclusive design involves engaging people who have been left out of design, such as the elderly, people with disabilities, and foreigners, from the early stages of planning and design.

The following table summarizes the differences between inclusive design and universal design.

While there are differences in approach, both aim for the same goal.

That is "to create a society where no one is excluded and everyone can use it."

Reference: Inclusive Design Creates Innovation That Leaves No One Behind｜Daiwa House Industry Co., Ltd.

3. 10 Examples of Inclusive Design

3-1. "TRIPP TRAPP" Chair Usable from Baby to Adult

Typical chairs are divided into children's and adults' sizes, and if the size doesn't fit, they can't be sat on comfortably. It's dangerous for a baby to use an adult chair, and children's chairs quickly become unusable as they grow.

The solution to this problem is "TRIPP TRAPP" by Norwegian furniture maker Stokke. It is designed to be used from baby to adult, and has received high praise worldwide.

The design allows it to be used at the right size at any age, based on comfort and excellent ergonomics.

Designer Peter Opsvik was inspired by his 2-year-old son's discomfort with a baby chair.

The L-shaped frame on both sides of the chair has 14 grooves, allowing the seat and footrest to be adjusted freely. This innovation allows sitting at the "right height" as they grow.

If the chair is comfortable, children will sit at the dining table longer, increasing family time around the table.

This aligns with the inclusive design philosophy of fostering emotional and social development.

Additionally, the simple and sophisticated design typical of Scandinavia not only provides functionality but also appeals to users.

Reference: TrippTrapp Chair for life Stokke's High Chair "Tripp Trapp" Reasons for Popularity and Best Timing to Purchase｜Stokke Japan

Reference: TrippTrapp Chair for life｜Stokke Japan

3-2. Citizen "Touch to Know the Time Watch"

Since its founding in 1918, watchmaker Citizen has continued to create watches that "support everyone."

A symbol of this commitment is the development of wristwatches for the visually impaired. In the 1960s, they released Japan's first "touch to know the time watch" and have since made improvements.

The latest model, "AC2200-55E," incorporates the principles of inclusive design throughout.

During development, the opinions of teachers and students from a school for the visually impaired in Lopburi, Thailand, were reflected, leading to its evolution.

Particular attention was paid to dispelling the impression of being "for the disabled." By achieving a simple and stylish appearance, it can be worn naturally as a fashion item.

The functionality of checking the time by touching the dial, as well as improved durability, makes it a watch that can be used for a long time in daily life.

This initiative embodies the inclusive design philosophy of aiming for "products that everyone wants to use," rather than "tools to compensate for inconvenience."

Regarding clocks, the clock position, an effective expression method for the visually impaired, is explained in detail

Reference: Touch to Know the Time Watch｜Citizen Watch Co., Ltd.

Regarding clocks, the clock position, an effective expression method for the visually impaired, is explained in detail here.

Reference:

3-3. NIKE "Go FlyEase"

Sports brand NIKE has produced many products incorporating innovative technologies. One representative example is the "Go FlyEase®︎" sneakers announced in 2021.

Traditional sneakers require tying laces and bending down to wear, which is a significant hurdle for those with limited hand or foot mobility.

Go FlyEase was designed to address this issue by incorporating the opinions of people with disabilities from the early stages of development.

The standout feature is the "hands-free wearing mechanism." By stepping on the heel, the shoe parts sink and lock, allowing easy on and off without using hands.

The soft, cushioned sole and rocker structure that naturally propels forward are also innovative features that enhance walking comfort.

A wide range of color variations is available, making it popular not only for its functionality but also for its fashion appeal.

As a result, it is well-received not only by people with disabilities but also by pregnant women and parents who appreciate the convenience of "hands-free wearing."

Because it can be easily worn by anyone, it is highly popular not only among people with hand disabilities but also among pregnant women and parents.

This product exemplifies the potential of inclusive design, where reflecting the voices of specific users ultimately leads to products that are easy for everyone to use.

Reference: Go FlyEase®︎｜NIKE

Go FlyEase®︎ is explained in detail here.

Reference:

3-4. TOTO "Public Toilets"

TOTO's "Public Toilets," adopted in public facilities, are examples of incorporating UD (Universal Design).

Traditional public toilets had a strong image of being "for wheelchair users = barrier-free toilets," resulting in congestion and inconvenience due to concentrated use.

Additionally, there were cases where the different needs of users, such as ostomates and those with infants, were not adequately covered.

TOTO addressed this issue by implementing space designs that everyone can use comfortably. They provided wider booths for smooth wheelchair movement and equipped facilities to accommodate various use cases, such as ostomate-compatible sinks and diaper changing tables.

Going beyond mere "barrier-free compliance," TOTO's public toilets are characterized by creating toilet spaces that can be used safely regardless of the user's situation or position.

Reference: Public Toilet Space Creation Points｜TOTO

For more on making toilets barrier-free, see

Reference:

3-5. Tokyo Metropolitan Kinuta Park Playground "Everyone's Plaza"

In March 2020, Tokyo Metropolitan Kinuta Park in Setagaya Ward opened "Everyone's Plaza," a playground incorporating inclusive design.

"Everyone's Plaza" features playground equipment that utilizes senses such as sound and touch, creating an environment where children can play regardless of physical conditions.

The paths are paved with rubber chips for safety, allowing smooth movement for wheelchairs. Benches and tables of varying heights and widths are installed, allowing users to choose according to their physique and situation.

The design philosophy of "consideration without distinction" is a hallmark of "Everyone's Plaza." Rather than targeting specific individuals, the space is designed for everyone to naturally mix and play together, garnering attention from a wide range of generations.

Reference: New Setagaya｜Setagaya Service Corporation

3-6. Clothing Alteration Service "Kiyasuku"

Finding stylish clothes only to realize "they don't fit!" is a common issue for people with disabilities.

The clothing alteration service "Kiyasuku," offered by Cowardrobe Co., Ltd., is gaining attention as a solution to this problem.

By remaking clothes to fit each user's body shape and movement characteristics, "wearing the clothes you want in your own way" becomes possible.

Kiyasuku provides detailed support to achieve the ideal style, sharing preferences through online hearings and photo exchanges, and checking and adjusting the clothes upon arrival.

The initiative has been highly praised, winning both the Good Design Award Best 100 and the Good Focus Award in 2022.

Contributing to a society where everyone can freely choose and enjoy fashion, which previously had limited options.

Reference: Kiyasuku｜Cowardrobe Co., Ltd.

Fashion brands for people with disabilities are explained in detail here.

Reference:

3-7. Microsoft "Xbox Adaptive Controller"

Microsoft's "Xbox Adaptive Controller," announced in 2018, is a special controller developed for gamers with disabilities.

Under the philosophy of "gaming is for everyone," inclusive design methods were incorporated, reflecting the opinions of those involved.

Traditional game controllers were difficult for people with disabilities to operate, posing a significant barrier.

Therefore, it was designed to allow users to customize their control methods to suit their bodies by freely connecting external buttons, switches, and joysticks.

Accessibility was also considered during packaging and opening, with loop handles added to make the box easy to open for anyone.

Emphasizing the coolness of being an "Xbox product" rather than a "support device," it has been highly praised by people with muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy, who say they can enjoy gaming again.

Reference: Xbox Adaptive Controller｜Microsoft

3-8. Google "Live Transcribe (Speech-to-Text App)"

Developed by Google in collaboration with Gallaudet University, "Live Transcribe" is a free Android app that instantly converts spoken words into text.

Designed to make it easier for the hearing impaired to participate in conversations, it is also used by students, travelers, journalists, and a wide range of other users.

From the 632 types of environmental sound data classified in Google's Audio Set, Live Transcribe adopts 60 classifications, such as "wind noise" and "dog barking," displaying annotations like "knock sound" on the screen.

This allows visual representation of environmental sounds, enabling people with hearing difficulties to enjoy conversations with confidence.

Text is not stored in the cloud and is immediately deleted, ensuring privacy.

Features like a dark theme to save battery and multilingual support make it a versatile tool for both daily life and business.

Reference: Two New Apps to Support "Conversation"｜Google Japan Blog

3-9. Starbucks "Community Store & Signing Store"

The "Starbucks Coffee nonowa Kunitachi Store" in Kunitachi City, Tokyo, is Japan's first signing store (a store where sign language is the common language).

More than half of the staff are hearing impaired, and systems using sign language, pointing boards, and digital signage are in place to allow anyone to order smoothly.

The store's design also emphasizes inclusivity, featuring "low tables that don't obstruct sign language," "lighting that makes expressions easy to see," and "furniture with rounded corners."

The drink pickup counter has digital signage displaying numbers and introducing sign language, allowing customers to naturally engage with sign language.

The "Community Store & Signing Store" was born from the desire of "people who are deaf to run the store themselves and build a career." As a result, more people are applying to work there, regardless of disability, making it a symbol of Starbucks' overall diversity promotion.

Reference: Japan's First Starbucks Signing Store Where Sign Language is the Common Language Opens in Kunitachi City, Tokyo｜Starbucks Coffee Japan Co., Ltd.

3-10. Panasonic "Walking Training Robot"

Panasonic's "Walking Training Robot" is a device that supports walking training for the elderly and rehabilitation patients.

In 2018, the design was function-focused and lacking, but feedback from demonstration experiments that it was "too uncool to use" led to a redesign through dialogue with those involved.

It was reborn with a stylish appearance like gym equipment.

As a result, the elderly themselves began to use it actively, leading to commercialization in 2021. It received high praise, winning the IAUD International Design Gold Award and the Good Design Best 100.

Inclusive design teaches us that it's important not just to be "usable" but to be something people "want to use."

Reference: Product Introduction｜Panasonic

For those who want to know more about initiatives nationwide, there are recommended articles.

Reference:

4. Seven Principles of Inclusive Design

Toilet sign for everyone for inclusive and universal design concept
Created by alice_photo

4-1. Provide an Equivalent Experience

One of the fundamental principles of inclusive design is to ensure that "the same experience can be shared" regardless of the user's position or situation. If parts of information or services are restricted to specific people, it creates a disparity in usage.

For example, providing alternative text or audio descriptions for people with visual impairments, and subtitles or sign language interpretation for people with hearing impairments, ensures that the essence of the experience remains the same even if the methods differ.

Design that provides fairness and reassurance to all users is necessary.

Reference: Principles of Inclusive Design｜Inclusive Design Principles

4-2. Consider the Situation

People do not always use products or services in the same environment or state. There are times when a smartphone is operated outdoors in bright light, or when only one hand is available on a train.

In inclusive design, it is important to design with differences in usage environment, physical condition, and situation in mind.

Examples include adopting color schemes with contrast for outdoor visibility and help functions that change content according to the user's situation.

By considering the "situation" of users, everyone can have a consistent service experience without being affected by location or condition.

Reference: Principles of Inclusive Design｜Inclusive Design Principles

4-3. Maintain Consistency

In inclusive design, it is required to consistently apply familiar conventions and patterns to users.

If operation methods and layouts change from scene to scene, it can cause confusion and be a significant burden on users.

Therefore, it is necessary to follow design guidelines and adopt consistent patterns and page structures to make it easy to use.

Maintaining consistency is not just about aesthetic beauty in design but is a fundamental principle for ensuring an experience that everyone can use without confusion.

Reference: Principles of Inclusive Design｜Inclusive Design Principles

4-4. Let Users Control

In inclusive design, it is essential to allow users to control the design themselves.

Instead of imposing the designed content, it is important to leave room for users to customize it to their liking.

People have different preferences for "readable font size" and "comfortable color contrast." Therefore, providing features that allow users to freely change font size, display direction, and color schemes enables everyone to use the service in an environment that suits them.

Additionally, it is necessary to avoid unexpected animations and autoplay that users do not want.

Reference: Principles of Inclusive Design｜Inclusive Design Principles

4-5. Provide Options

In inclusive design, it is a principle to provide multiple methods (options). If there is only one means, it becomes a significant hurdle for those who find it difficult to use.

For example, in form submission, providing both "submit with Enter key" and "click submit button," or including text information alongside voice guidance, allows users to choose the method that suits them through detailed consideration.

By preparing multiple options, users with visual or hearing constraints, or those temporarily unable to use their hands, can operate smoothly, creating an environment that is easy for everyone to use.

Reference: Principles of Inclusive Design｜Inclusive Design Principles

4-6. Prioritize Content

In inclusive design, it is important not just to line up information but to organize and provide content in a way that is easy for users to understand. If priorities are unclear, unnecessary burdens are placed on users to find the necessary information.

For example, adopting an accordion format for FAQ pages allows users to quickly open and check only the questions they want to see. In a mail app, placing the "new compose" button in a prominent position on the screen allows users to perform frequently used operations without hesitation.

By organizing content priorities, an environment is created where information is easy to find and operations are intuitive, reducing overall user stress and leading to a comfortable experience for everyone.

Reference: Principles of Inclusive Design｜Inclusive Design Principles

4-7. Add Value

The final principle is to "add convenience and reassurance" for users. By incorporating "helpful" features beyond basic functionality, usability is significantly enhanced.

For example, utilizing smartphone features such as microphones, cameras, vibration, and geolocation can support daily life more comfortably.

Design that considers added value is not just about being "usable" but about being "easy to use and reassuring."

Reference: Principles of Inclusive Design｜Inclusive Design Principles

5. It's Not Just About Promoting Inclusive Design

Inclusive design can generate innovative ideas by incorporating the voices of various users, bringing significant value to society. However, it is not a simple matter of "the more, the better," and there are some caveats and limitations.

・Adjustment Costs and Misalignment of Purpose
Incorporating the opinions of lead users is important, but it is not always possible to equally reflect everyone's voice.

Needs vary greatly depending on the type and degree of disability and cultural background, and attempting to forcibly integrate them may cause the original project purpose to be lost.

Proper adjustment requires a lot of time and effort, and calm judgment is needed to avoid misjudging the direction of the deliverables.

・Designer Skills and Roles
High skill is required to translate lead users' voices into products and services.

Designers must function not only as designers but also as "interpreters" and "facilitators" among users with different backgrounds.

Respecting diverse opinions while maintaining overall harmony requires expertise and communication skills.

・Cost and Risk
Introducing new design methods involves significant costs, such as training designers, creating mechanisms for user participation, and possibly introducing dedicated equipment.

Jumping into large-scale investments without small-scale verification can lead to significant damage if it fails.

Inclusive design is successful when "proceeding with step-by-step verification."

・Common Pitfalls
In the field of inclusive design, there is often a misconception that "hearing from the parties once is enough."

In reality, hearing is not the goal but merely the start. Continuous collaboration with those involved is necessary to deepen insights and provide good service.

If user perspectives and business perspectives are not balanced, it may end up as mere idealism.

・Initiatives Based on Equality
Finally, it is important to emphasize that inclusive design is not about treating "disability" as special but is a process of discovering issues based on physical, cognitive, and sensory differences.

While respecting those involved, it is important not to take it too seriously and to think together from an "equal standpoint."

6. In Conclusion