Lisa Miles

In today’s world, engineers play a pivotal role in creating technologies that cater to diverse user needs. Designing for disability is an essential aspect of this work, ensuring that everyone can access and benefit from technological advancements. As engineers, we have the power to transform lives and create a world where everyone has equal opportunities. Designing for disability is not just about compliance; it’s about fostering empathy, understanding, and innovation.

With an estimated one billion people worldwide living with disabilities, the challenge is immense, but the opportunity is even greater. When engineers design with disability in mind, everyone benefits. From assistive devices to accessible interfaces, our collective efforts can bridge gaps and empower individuals of all abilities.

This week on EngX, we’ll delve into the topic of Designing for Disability.

If you're an engineer working on projects or products aimed at fostering a more inclusive society, this week's activities invites you to be part of the conversation. We'd love to hear from you!  Read and comment on thought provoking blogs in Community Insights or start a discussion with the EngX community in our Engineering Discussions forum. Let’s create a more inclusive world together!

Don't forget to log in and follow #Engineering with a Disability to keep up to date with the week's activities or sign up to a daily or weekly digest, and visit our curated content area for all things Equality, Diversity and Inclusion  

  • A handy feature in Google

    Find wheelchair-accessible places

    To filter search results for wheelchair-accessible places on Google Maps, you need to adjust your accessibility settings. Wheelchair accessibility attributes on Google Maps show if people in wheelchairs can access a business’s entrance, toilets, seating, parking and lift.

    support.google.com/.../9882117

  • Discussing the topic of "Designing for Disability" is crucial as it pertains to creating a more inclusive and accessible society. Disability encompasses not only physical impairments but also cognitive, sensory, and emotional challenges. Therefore, designers need to consider various types of disabilities and take measures to ensure that everyone can benefit from the convenience provided by products and environments.

    Designing products for individuals with disabilities entails considerations of usability, accessibility, and comfort, including but not limited to:

    1. Physical Accessibility: Products should be easy to reach and operate, particularly important for individuals using wheelchairs, walkers, or other assistive devices. This may involve lowering the height of switches and buttons and ensuring adequate passage widths for wheelchair access.

    2. Visual and Auditory Assistance: For individuals with visual or auditory impairments, designing products should include features such as audio prompts, high contrast, large fonts, etc., to ensure information is easily understood.

    3. Cognitive Support: Some individuals with disabilities may require additional support to understand and use products. Simplified interfaces, clear instructions and icons, and intuitive operation flows can be helpful.

    4. Emotionally Friendly: Product design should strive to consider users' emotional needs, respecting their dignity and personal space. Avoiding insulting or discriminatory language or imagery is important.

    In the process of designing accessible products, collaborating with individuals with disabilities and disability advocacy organizations is crucial. They can provide valuable feedback and insights, helping designers better understand the needs and challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

    Ultimately, designing products for individuals with disabilities not only improves their quality of life but also fosters a more inclusive and supportive environment for society as a whole.

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