Approaches to universal design in Japanese technological industries
A.S. Macdonald
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AbstractJapanese industry, in response to its rapidly ageing society and the wide range of capabilities that accompanies its changing demographic, has embraced a universal design (UD) approach to develop and promote ‘universal’ products for the Japanese marketplace. This paper reports on the findings of a study of universal products designed by Japanese technological industries. It examines the relationships between designers, users, companies and their policies, social policy towards inclusivity, and selected product types reflecting UD values. To provide context, recent government legislation, and the heightened awareness of the universal agenda within Japanese society are also discussed. The author proposes that a UD approach offers technological industries a better way of designing products per se by offering improved understanding of the capabilities, needs, values and quality of lifestyle goals of end users. Evidence also emerges of a strong business case for universal design and that products designed using UD principles have wide market appeal. This paper draws from research conducted in Japan in 2004, 2005, and 2006, supported through a Japan Foundation Research Fellowship, and a Global Research Award from the Royal Academy of Engineers.Keywords: inclusive; universal; design; products; industries Japan
A.S. Macdonald (2006). Approaches to universal design in Japanese technological industries. Gerontechnology, 5(3), 126-139
https://doi.org/10.4017/gt.2006.05.03.002.00