Study points the way to better designs for older and disabled people
11/06/2009
New research from Ofcom has suggested ways to encourage industries to design products, services and communications equipment that recognise the needs of older and disabled people.
The research was commissioned by Ofcom's Advisory Committee on Older and Disabled People, which has a duty to encourage the availability of easily usable apparatus, and their research identified a number of barriers that seem to be currently preventing companies from building in inclusive, ‘user- friendly’ design in their production and services.
The main barrier picked up by the research (apart from a lack of support from industry senior leadership), was a basic lack of access to information on the requirements of older and disabled people. It was felt that more dialogue and cooperation between industry and the groups that represent the less able would help industry leaders to understand the issues. Better marketing of accessible products was also felt to be needed so that purchasers could make ethical choices.
Mike Whitlam, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Older and Disabled People, said: "Players in the supply chain should learn from these findings. There are some measures that may require a concerted
approach but there is much that companies can do themselves - and now.
"We understand that there are commercial pressures, particularly in the current economic climate, but with an ageing population and many of us developing an impairment at some point in our lives there are also market opportunities and commercial prizes for firms that get it right."
As Mike Whitlam concludes, “Good design for older and disabled people is good design for all.”
The full report can be found linked below.