Stepping out of the niche 

Carolin Pauly is on a mission. As managing partner of the Institute for Universal Design, she has the goal of creating a world for everyone: a world in which people come together naturally, whatever their background, whatever their age, whatever their circumstances. Design is a key to achieving that goal. “We need spaces where people feel comfortable, and things that are really easy and natural to use,” declares Pauly, and describes her role as supporting designers and companies along this journey: “We promote them, provide them with a platform, and generate visibility.” This is done with the help of exhibitions, competitions, and workshops. 

The Institute for Universal Design maintains longstanding partnerships with German charities including Diakonie and Lebenshilfe. However, these organizations are veterans in the field, engaging with matters of inclusion and their pitfalls on a daily basis. 

“On the other hand, there are many companies that are only just starting to think about this area,” says Pauly, and points out the skills shortage: “What are they going to do when the regular employment market can’t come up with enough candidates of choice? And what will happen to onboarding if half their workforce suddenly have different cultural backgrounds?”

In situations like those, simplicity and intuitive, clear-cut processes are the way forward. Design is undergoing a general shift away from niche target groups and towards broad usability. Companies and designers need to make more intensive use of participation and keep it in focus. “Many might think they have it all covered, but a more detailed scrutiny still reveals plenty of open questions.” The issue here involves pragmatic, everyday considerations, such as setting up a public space in a multicultural district with residents’ involvement.  

But why does German industry, which has always been a global export leader, not take a more proactive stance over diversity? In Pauly’s view, “there simply isn’t enough pressure. And yet there are plenty of initiatives that turn the spotlight on the topic, particularly in the world of work.” 

Universal design was long a euphemism for “designing for oldies.” “We plan to bring the concept out of its niche,” affirms Pauly. Out of the pall of nursing care and insurance claims. No more dismissive categorization as “old, sick, and disabled.” Universal design is about developing whole worlds for living, and whole ranges of services that cater to the diversity of our society. Pauly takes a holistic view of design, noting that “our society is immensely varied, spanning old and young, individuals with and without physical or mental limitations, individuals from hugely different cultural backgrounds.” Universal design creates points of access and makes things simpler, she says, and quotes her favorite example of a visit to an official authority, a wilderness of incomprehensible signposts and regulations. Everyone “could save so much time if only the signage and forms used there were designed to be intuitive and easy to understand!” The principle she describes extends deep into the roots of everyday life: 

“If we’re supposed to enjoy using things, they have to be easy to use. A well-designed folding chair, say, could be used in the shower to wash a child’s feet, for shaving legs, or for an elderly user to sit on and wash in safety. And much, much more!”  

Barrier-free access, then, is far more than a service for people with restricted mobility; it assists everyone out and about, whether they have glasses, hearing aids, or a child in a stroller. Likewise, barrier-free accessibility does not end with the publication of regulations like the DIN 18040 standard, or with the provision of visible ramps or elevators. Instead, it involves fundamental questions of mindset: Do we want to create a world for all? The extent of that question is often revealed in everyday situations where something does not work. Clear signage to an easy-to find elevator is helpful for families with strollers, unlucky ski pros with one foot in plaster—and, of course, the elderly. All of us need assistance at one time or other in our lives, some more or earlier than others. So is any progress being made at all? “Oh, yes,” reassures Pauly. “Public transportation in Vienna is brilliant. The streetcars there have gradually advanced to the stage of having displays showing passengers which side of the next stop the elevator is located, right or left. They’re setting a great example.” With such cases in mind, the Institute for Universal Design holds regular workshops for students in which they explore their environment and provide critical reviews of, say, bus stops and public authorities. It couldn’t be easier! 

But the issue has long since moved beyond individual considerations and on to the big picture. “The right to participate is universal and applies to everyone,” says Pauly, pointing out that various solutions are available. Attractively designed objects are no longer enough; the issue involves mindsets and matters that should be self-evident. The final barriers are in our heads. But Pauly firmly believes in anchoring her mission there, too. Progress is being made, step by step. “You know the saying that dripping water wears away a stone? That’s us. We’re persevering.” Because it affects us all.