Design Research
Universal Design
Summer 2025
This past summer, I spent time researching universal design for my Persuasive Communications course, at The Ohio State University. I focused my research on the application of universal design and how it can be applied to various products, services, or experiences designed for children and youth. I explored the current efforts being made to help relieve this ongoing problem of universal design, and how not all designs do not accommodate it.
Throughout my research, I utilized various research methods. I evaluated peer-reviewed academic journals, newspaper articles, government and university websites. In addition, I referenced the efforts of nonprofit organizations, and analyzed survey results from the Columbus area, drawing conclusions of potential outcomes based on the trend of the survey results.
TESTIMONIAL
“ONE OUT OF FIVE ADULTS IN THE UNITED STATES HAS SOME DISABILITY, ACCORDING TO THE CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION- ONE OUT OF 20 ADULTS"
MICHAEL KIMMELMAN / THE NEW YORK TIMES / ARCHITECTURE CRITIC
Problem
Not all designs are universally designed
- Products, Services, or Experience Design
- Group: Children & Youth
Preexisting designs that have been altered, including companies such as Nike, Zappos, etc.
One of the nonprofit organization that is aiming for a change using various methods
Goal
An increase in universally designed products and services for children and youth to enhance the user experience of each individual
Looking Ahead
I plan to further expand my research in this area of universal design, centered around a larger user group of everyday people. In addition, I aim to implement a greater level of universal design into my own future designs, which may include product, service, or experience design.