Inclusive design is an approach focused on creating products, services, and experiences accessible to people of all backgrounds and circumstances.
It ensures that every person, regardless of their gender, location, native language, age, sex or even physical abilities, can enjoy and use different products and services.
It applies a core principle of 'solving for one, extending to many' which basically means it acknowledges that different solutions tailored to specific needs can benefit a wider range of users.
A prime example of inclusive design is the peeler.
In 1989, during a vacation in the south of France with his wife Betsey, businessman Sam Farber had an 'aha!' moment.
Betsey, who suffered from mild arthritis, voiced her discomfort while peeling apples with a metal-style peeler.
“'Sam, can you do something about this? Make a better handle,” she said to him.
As the founder of Copco, a renowned Europe-based cookware manufacturer, Sam's background with his wife enabled him to recognize a significant gap in the market; kitchen tools that were not only functional but also comfortable to use for everyone, including those with arthritis conditions affecting the hands.
He then collaborated with Smart Design, a prominent New York industrial design firm, and came up with OXO’s Good Grips line of kitchen tools.
Among this line of kitchen tools was the peeler which they designed with an ergonomic handle and gave it a robust construction which ultimately made it a favourite among home cooks, professional chefs and individuals of all ages and abilities.
While initially tailored to address the needs of individuals with arthritis or similar hand conditions, the peeler's universal design features quickly gained popularity among a broader audience.
The beauty of inclusive design is that it not only yields numerous business benefits but is also a smart social and governance strategy.
By ensuring that public policies, programs, and services are accessible and responsive to the needs of all citizens, governments can promote social cohesion, economic prosperity, and democratic participation.
Inclusive design also fosters trust and legitimacy in government institutions by demonstrating a commitment to fairness, transparency and accountability.
What’s more, the concept of inclusive design can be applied in everyday life too.
In workplaces and schools, for instance, simple adjustments such as designing cafeteria menus to accommodate dietary complications, such as allergies, intolerances, or medical conditions like diabetes.
These adjustments promote better dietary intake for all individuals by providing access to a wide range of food options.
As we continue to champion a more just and equitable world, let us collectively strive to build a future where diversity is celebrated, barriers are dismantled, and everyone can participate, contribute, and flourish.
Njeri Mugure is a product designer at Marathon XP
