Universal design, inclusive design, design for all, innovation for all, and accessibility are some of the concepts aimed at making products, environments, and services usable and accessible for diverse users, regardless of ability, age, or background. While these terms imply common goals, they each offer distinct approaches to creating inclusive solutions.
This book presents the proceedings of UD2024, the 7th International Conference on Universal Design, held from 20 to 22 November 2024 in Oslo, Norway. Although this UD conference series uses the term universal design, it also welcomes researchers and practitioners from the other disciplines designing for diverse user groups in the hope that this will result in a wider spectrum of viewpoints, and will help to unite these various approaches to advance the field.
A total of 97 scientific papers were submitted to the conference, of which 60 were accepted for publication after a rigorous, 2 stage, peer review process. These 60 papers are grouped into 11 sections, covering theory and policy perspectives; co-design, community engagement, design methods and tools; universal design for health, wellbeing and equity; universal design and education; universal design in the built environment; architecture, sustainability and design tools; urban planning and navigation; universal design and transport; inclusive tourism and cultural heritage; universal design of ICT, digital accessibility and inclusion; and AI and XR.
The book integrates knowledge and perspectives from users, practitioners, researchers, experts and policy makers, and will be of interest to all those working in the field of inclusive design.
