Products that are inclusive

The British Standards Institute’s (BSI) definition of inclusive design is

 ‘the design of mainstream products and/or services that are accessible to, and usable by, as many people as reasonably possible’.

you have covered inclusive design in Unit 1.8, but it is worth revising what it is to be an inclusive product.

These might include:

Kohl Kreatives launched the Flex Collection equipped with flexible makeup brushes. The company aims to create more makeup application opportunities for folks with motor impairments. The new collection features brushes with a flexible and comfortable design and easy grips. 

In addition, the accessible makeup brush collection is made with soft vegan fibers, designed to give users an airbrushed finish. Each brush is designed with an ergonomic grip design to ensure the user does not drop the brush mid-application. They also stand up on their own for easy access when they are not in use. The Flex Collection includes large and small triangle brushes, a large square brush, a small circle brush, and a diamond-shaped brush.

Trend Themes 

1. Accessible Makeup Tools - Creating makeup tools that can be easily used by individuals with motor impairments. 

2. Flexible Makeup Brushes - Designing makeup brushes that feature flexible bristles to improve precision during application.

3. Vegan Beauty Products - Developing beauty products that are cruelty-free and made with vegan fibers.

Industry Implications

1. Beauty - Integrating designs of flexible makeup brushes for those with motor disabilities to improve inclusivity for the population.

2. Disability Assistance - Creating tools specifically for individuals with motor impairments to increase independence and access to the realm of beauty.

3. Vegan Product Industry - Catering to the rising trend of cruelty-free products with the creation of makeup brushes made with vegan fibers.

Add lots more examples of products that could be modified to become more inclusive - telephone, mobile phone, TV remote, Kitchen Utensils, Kettles, Mugs / Cups, Hand tools in a workshop, 

Defining Inclusive Design

Inclusive design aims to accommodate the widest range of users and needs from the outset. The core principle is to be as accessible, equitable, and flexible in use as possible. The goal is to benefit people with disabilities and special requirements without compromising the quality for everyone else. 

For example, curb cuts on sidewalks for wheelchair access also help parents with strollers and delivery workers with heavy loads. Captions on online videos not only aid those with hearing loss but allow videos to be watched without sound. Inclusive design solutions are conscious of diverse perspectives and needs.

Exclusive design

Neurodiverse Requirements in Product Design

Designing for neurodiversity leads to more inclusive, user-friendly products for everyone. By considering sensory, cognitive, motor, emotional, and personalisation needs, you can create products that work better for a diverse range of users.

Sensory Considerations

Many neurodivergent individuals have heightened or reduced sensitivity to sensory stimuli.

Avoid Overstimulation:

• • Minimize bright, flashing lights or excessive color contrasts.

  • Reduce background noise in interactive products.

Provide Adjustable Sensory Features:

• • Allow users to control brightness, volume, and contrast.

  • Use soft-touch materials for comfort.

Consider Texture Sensitivities:

• • Avoid materials that may feel unpleasant or distracting.

Executive Function and Attention Support

Many neurodivergent users may struggle with focus, organisation, and working memory.

• Minimize Distractions:

  • Reduce unnecessary animations or movement in digital interfaces.

  • Use simple, clear notifications instead of overwhelming alerts.

• Support Time Management:

  • Include reminders, timers, or progress indicators.

  • Offer customizable pacing in tasks or interactions.

• Provide Alternative Interaction Methods:

  • Allow voice control, tactile input, or customisable shortcuts.

Motor Coordination and Physical Accessibility

Some neurodivergent individuals may have fine or gross motor challenges.

• Ergonomic and Easy-to-Use Controls:

  • Buttons should be large and well-spaced.

  • Avoid requiring precise or repetitive movements.

• Alternative Input Options:

  • Touch, voice, or switch-based control alternatives.

  • Minimize drag-and-drop or swipe-heavy interactions.

• Stable and Durable Construction:

  • Ensure products can withstand fidgeting or stimming behaviours.

Emotional and Social Considerations

Many neurodivergent individuals experience anxiety in unfamiliar or complex interactions.

• Reduce Anxiety Triggers:

  • Provide clear instructions and predictable outcomes.

  • Allow users to preview or test functions before committing.

• Support Social Interaction Differences:

  • If designing communication tools, allow text-based alternatives to verbal interaction.

  • Include options to control notifications or interactions.

Neurodivergent-Friendly Testing and Feedback

• Involve neurodivergent individuals in product testing to ensure real-world usability.

• Gather feedback through multiple formats (e.g., written, visual, spoken).

• Allow extended testing time to accommodate different processing speeds.

exam questions