A resource bank for disability simulation

We are developing a publicly accessible digital resource bank to support the creation of universally designed products, software and services. This toolbox will offer recommendations and guides for simulating various disabilities, serving both developers and non-technical professionals. By expanding knowledge of universal design principles, we aim to facilitate the development of accessible and user-friendly products and services for a diverse audience.

A woman with Down syndrome and dark hair is sitting in front of a bright window in a beige armchair, in front of a modern wooden coffee table. On the table, there is a glass water carafe and a vase with dried flowers. The window is lit up by the sun, and one can see a road or a parking lot with some cars that are out of focus. The woman has headphones in her ears and a laptop on her lap, and is speaking with someone on her computer. — *Universal design enables more people to access and benefit from digital resources.* Image: Pexels.

User-centered Universal Design

Universal design is both a goal and a process, with the objective of creating accessible products, services, software and environments that can be used as many people as possible, regardless of age, ability, or background. However, developing universally designed products and services presents challenges, as many development and design environments are hesitant to recruit users for testing. This project seeks to bridge this gap by facilitating more user-centered design practices.

A toolbox for simulating disabilities

Our goal is to establish a publicly accessible digital resource bank that provides equipment recommendations and helpful guides for simulating various disabilities. This toolbox will be available on a dedicated website, enabling consideration of universal design from the outset of a design process and supporting the development of accessible, user-friendly solutions for individuals with reduced functional ability.

Although the project primarily targets Norwegian development environments, we envision the resources being widely used to increase awareness of various disabilities. The resource bank is designed to be useful not only for developers, but also for professionals in other roles, such as designers, purchasers, service providers, and leaders in both public and private sectors.

A woman with red hair ny in a wheelchair is sitting at the dining table in a very modern apartment. The floor is made of gray tiles, the wall is of red bricks, and the ceiling is painted white. Behind her is a gray concrete wall with niches housing green houseplants. The room behind her is partially in the dark, where parts of the entrance area are visible. She is communicating with someone via her laptop, greeting them by waving with her right hand. She is using headphones to both listen and speak. — *Inclusive technology allows individuals to participate fully, wherever they are.* Image: Pexels.

A user-tested resource bank for Universal Design

In collaboration with The Norwegian Federation of Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (FFO) and their affiliated organisations, we are committed to developing recommendations that have been tested and verified by user groups, ensuring an effective and reliable toolbox for universal design.

To learn more about this project, please contact:

Joschua Thomas Simon-Liedtke

Senior Research Scientist

Till Halbach

Senior Research Scientist

Project: Simulation of human impairments

Partner: The Norwegian Federation of Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (FFO)

Funding: Foundation Dam

Period: 2024-2025