Louis Sullivan’s ubiquitous phrase ‘form follows function’ is often associated with 20th century modernist architecture, though, as designers, it is a mantra we are familiar with and it stands to reason. The principle boils down to the belief that the shape of a building or object should reflect its intended purpose, and that purpose should focus on the us
GOOD DESIGN SHOULD NATURALLY BE INCLUSIVE.
Whether it’s called human-centric, universal, or inclusive design, our primary job is to create exceptional experiences. Universal design can be evaluated by these seven principles:
- Is useful and appealing
- Provides choice
- Is easy to understand
- Provides information effectively (regardless of ambient conditions or one’s abilities)
- Minimizes hazards and adverse consequences of unintended actions.
- Can be experienced with minimal effort and is intuitive
- Is appropriately located and sized for us
When the focus is on providing good design, we create value for the individual, business and society. As designers, we should always keep in mind that the benefits of good design extends beyond the individual to society – by enabling independence as well as participation in community, and business – increasing customer satisfaction and reach. If we strive to use these established principles, we increase the probability that the design will be successful.