Basics of Accessibility

The material below is taken from: Mueller, J. L. Case Studies on Universal Design.
The Center for Universal Design, School of Design, NC State University, 1997.

EQUITABLE USE
The product environment does not disadvantage or stigmatize any group of users. It supports the user's sense of self-worth and esteem, and helps to maintain personal control.

Is the product/ environment attractive to users of any age or ability?

Does the product/ environment offer an equivalent experience to all users?

Does each potential user have access to all features of the product/environment?

FLEXIBILITY IN USE
The product/ environment accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities. It is hospitable and accommodating to users from childhood to old age, including temporary circumstances, and long-term conditions.

Is the product/environment safe and usable with a single fist, open palm, elbow, foot, or pointing device?

Is the product/environment safe and usable by either right or left dominate user?

Is the product/environment adjustable?

Is the product/environment safe and usable regardless of the user's pace?

SIMPLE AND INTUITIVE USE
Use of the product/ environment design is easy to understand, regardless of the user's experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level.

Is the product/environment safe and usable for a novice without instructions?

Is the product/environment safe and usable by a novice if all words are removed?

Is the product/environment safe and usable if the user is also listening to a radio, talking, or reading?

Is the product/environment as safe and usable the first time as it is the 100th time?

PERCEPTABLE INFORMATION
The product/ environment communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user's sensory abilities.

Is the product/environment safe and usable with closed eyes or plugged ears?

Is the product/environment safe and usable in a darkened space or bright sun?

Is the product/environment safe and usable without speaking or when viewed from twice the intended distance?

Is the product/environment safe and usable when used with guide cane, lip-reading, TTY, hearing aid or other assistance?

TOLERANCE FOR ERROR
The product/ environment minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions.

Is the user given the opportunity to reverse any action?

Does the product/environment prompt the user?

Is the product/environment safe and usable with non-dominant hand?

Is the product/environment safe and effective if the user disregards instructions?

Is the product/environment safe and usable at half or twice the intended pace?

Is the product/environment safe and usable if leaned on for balance?

LOW PHYSICAL EFFORT
The product/ environment can be used efficiently and comfortably, with minimum of fatigue.

Can the user stop or rest at any moment necessary?

Is the product/environment safe and usable if the user maintain neutral body position, without lifting either foot, or twisting either wrist, or bending/twisting at the waist?

Can the product/environment be used either standing or seated?

Would the user become fatigued wearing wrist weights?

Does the product/environment require no more force than that of a finger?

SIZE AND SPACE FOR APPROACH AND USE
The product/ environment provides appropriate size and space for approach, reach, manipulation, and use, regardless of the user's body size, posture, or mobility.

Are all the necessary elements of the product/environment in plain view and in reach of both a small wheelchair user and a tall ambulatory person?

Is the product/environment safe and usable regardless of the weight of the user?

Does the product/environment allow space for a personal assistant?