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Inclusive Design: A Strategic Approach to Innovation
Rut Turró
March 31, 2025
Introduction
Inclusive design is more than just a compliance requirement; it is a strategic opportunity that fosters innovation, enhances user experience, and expands market reach.
Companies that embrace inclusive design position themselves at the forefront of industry advancements, improving not only their product offerings but also their brand reputation and customer loyalty.
The Importance of Inclusive Design
Inclusive design ensures that products and services are accessible to the widest possible audience, including individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and those with temporary impairments.
The core principles of inclusive design focus on usability, flexibility, and equitable access.
The power of inclusive design
By focusing on solving the problems of excluded groups, we have been able to develop innovations that benefit society as a whole.
Inclusive design has the power to create functional, user-friendly products that enhance everyone’s life, regardless of ability.
By creating fewer but better-designed products that serve diverse needs—whether through inclusive or intergenerational wardrobe essentials—brands can achieve lasting impact.
Inclusive Design: A Challenge or the Key to Innovation?
Designing accessible products boosts sales, enhances user experience, and reduces costs. It also enables businesses to reach a broader and more diverse market.
However, many companies have yet to integrate it into their strategy, missing out on a huge opportunity.
Too often, it is seen as a legal requirement rather than a competitive advantage.
Why does integrating it remain a challenge when its benefits are so clear?
Common Barriers to Adoption
Despite its clear advantages, many companies hesitate to adopt inclusive design due to misconceptions and perceived challenges.
Perceived High Costs:
Some businesses believe that making products more inclusive requires significant investment, when in reality, it can improve efficiency and reduce long-term costs.
Lack of Awareness:
Many companies do not fully understand how to implement inclusive design across all stages of product development.
Legal Compliance Mindset:
Viewing accessibility as merely a legal obligation rather than a driver of innovation leads to minimal effort in incorporating inclusive principles.
Implementing Inclusive Design
To successfully integrate inclusive design into business strategies, companies should consider the following steps:
1- Commitment from Leadership: Executive buy-in is crucial for fostering an inclusive design culture.
2- User-Centric Research: Engaging with diverse users to understand their needs and challenges.
3- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Involving designers, developers, and marketing teams to ensure accessibility is prioritized.
4- Education and Training: Equipping teams with knowledge and tools to implement inclusive design effectively.
5- Continuous Improvement: Regularly testing and iterating based on user feedback to refine accessibility.
Benefits of Adopting Inclusive Design
✅ Larger market reach: 50% of Europe’s population looks for accessible solutions:
25% of Europeans have some form of disability.
20% of the European population is aged 65+ as of 2024 – and this number continues to grow.
Temporary disabilities account for approximately 5% (annual estimated figure due to sick leave).
✅ True innovation: Some of the best ideas emerge when designing for those who face barriers. Examples:
Remote controls designed for people with limited mobility.
Nike FlyEase shoes allow you to put them on while standing, without bending down or tying laces.