Universal Design
📋 What it is
Universal design means building things to work for the WIDEST range of people from the start — helping everyone.
🗣️ Coach says
Universal design is designing for everyone up front, instead of adding "special" fixes later. A curb cut helps wheelchairs AND strollers, bikes, and rolling bags. Captions help Deaf viewers AND anyone in a noisy room. When you design for the edges, you make it better for all — that’s the "curb-cut effect."
🧠 Memory hook
Design for the WIDEST range from the start (equitable use). The curb cut helps everyone — the curb-cut effect.
😂 Giggle
The elevator and the stairs got into an argument about who was more inclusive.
The ramp said, "Amateurs."
😲 Whoa!
Curb cuts were fought for by wheelchair users — and now everyone with a stroller, bike, or suitcase uses them daily.
✅ Quick check: What is the "curb-cut effect"?
Say your answer out loud first — then reveal.
A feature designed for disabled people (like a curb cut) ends up helping everyone.
Universal design for the edges improves the experience for all users.
🧪 Try it! (2 minutes)
Spot one "curb-cut effect" around you (captions, ramps, automatic doors) and note who all it helps.