Toward the Future

The Design Challenge

The Essiential Question

The Design Options <<

Design Guidelines

Angled Measuring Cup by Good Grips is a transgener-ational design that has revolutionized liquid measuring. A patented angled surface lets you read measurement markings by looking straight down into the Cup. The handle is soft and non-slip for a firm grip. Metric and Standard measurement markings are dishwasher safe.

The Design Options...

How can products and environments best accommodate the physical and sensory limitations each of us acquires at some point during our lifetime?

There are only three options...

Continue to ignore the problem.

This choice only exacerbates and continues the problem of discrimination by design.

Continue to market specialized add-on gadgets and devices promoted as aids for "the handicapped" and "the elderly."

A variety of so-called "adaptive" devices target seniors and people with disabilities. Such quick-fix, add-on, psudo-solutions attempt to correct the failures of existing products or environments they claim to remedy. Given a choice, most people reject their demeaning—and stigmatizing—"medical," "aging," or "disabilitiy" connotations.

(Such devices should not be confused with the many fine specialized products and environments designed to serve the needs of those with severe physical or sensory impairments and disabilities.)

Design universal 'transgenerational' products and environments at the outset to appeal to — and accommodate the needs of — the widest spectrum of people of all ages and abilities, without penalty to any group.

The transgenerational design option provides a better product for all users, regardless of age or ability. It also helps those with physical or sensory limitations extend their independence and live with dignity. And this accommodation can occur with little or no increased cost to either the manufacturer or consumer.

Most products can be designed to be used by — and appeal to — the widest spectrum of ages and abilities. We can help you expand your products' desirability.

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