CUergo: Universal Design Home Page

Cornell University Ergonomics Web

"Universal Design is the creation and arrangement of objects so that age and physical limitations are not obstacles to their use."
Jeff Reuschel, Manager, Haworth Industrial Design Studio in Access By Design

On July 26, 1990 President George Bush signed a revolutionary piece of legislation called the Americans with Disabilities Act. (ADA) At that time most Americans were not aware of the design issues which illustrated the need for such an act. However once the compliance with the ADA began the benefits to everyone become more obvious for which the curb-cut is a good example. "Along with the wheelchair user, parents with baby carriages, delivery people, skateboarders and others have benefited from this simple urban design modification." (Accessible Society Action Project)

The passing of the ADA has been a catalyst for generating new interest in ergonomics and design for the entire population. However the elderly are a major group of concern. Census statistics show that 12.7 % of the U.S. population is 65 years or older. That number is projected to grow to 20 % in the year 2030. These unprecedented numbers are due to the aging babyboomer population as well as an increase in the life span of elderly people. Designs that can foster independent living and mobility will greatly enable these and other users.

This website is intended to be an educational tool and resource on the subject of universal design.

Principles of Universal Design - illustrates the 7 most frequently cited principles of universal design Case Studies - provides links to images of universally designed products and environments

Standards - provides information and links on current standards and compliance Checklists - provides basic guidelines to make buildings and products user-friendly

Activities - fun ways to learn more about universal design Conferences - gives information and links to future and past conferences focused on universal design

Resources - provides links to bibliographic databases, newsletters and organizations specializing in universal design References - a list of books and websites used in making this site

Visit the Design and Environmental Analysis web site at Cornell University to find out more about our department.

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This page was created by Michele Marut.

	Principles of Universal Design - illustrates the 7 most frequently cited principles of universal design		Case Studies - provides links to images of universally designed products and environments
	Standards - provides information and links on current standards and compliance		Checklists - provides basic guidelines to make buildings and products user-friendly
	Activities - fun ways to learn more about universal design		Conferences - gives information and links to future and past conferences focused on universal design
	Resources - provides links to bibliographic databases, newsletters and organizations specializing in universal design		References - a list of books and websites used in making this site