Inclusive Design

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Designing beyond sight | Nilou Vakil | TEDxKU
TEDx Talks· 2025-07-08 16:38
Core Argument - The design industry predominantly focuses on visual aspects, neglecting other senses, leading to an impoverished environment [5][6][7] - The industry should shift from sight-centered design to sense-centered design, incorporating touch, hearing, scent, and memory to create richer, more responsive, and human-centered spaces [23][24] - The industry needs to involve all users in the design process, not just experts, to create spaces that belong to everyone [21][22][23] Sensory Design & Empathy - The industry can learn from visually impaired individuals to understand how to navigate spaces through all senses [3][4][5] - Experiential exercises, such as using low vision simulators and blindfolds, can foster empathy and inform design thinking [10][11] - Integrating sensory experiences and empathy into the design process can lead to more inclusive and user-friendly spaces [13][24] Design Tools & Communication - The industry can utilize tools like sensory design cards to facilitate communication between educators, students, stakeholders, and architects [14][15][20] - These cards can bridge the gap between technical expertise and user experience, enabling mutual understanding and collaborative decision-making [15][16][20] - The design cards categorize sensory considerations like clarity, acoustics, environmental sensory, pathfinding, materials, textures, and lighting [18]
WHIRLPOOL BRAND LAUNCHES SPIN&LOAD DISHWASHER RACK, THE MOST INCLUSIVE LOWER-LEVEL DISHWASHER RACK DESIGN ON THE MARKET
Prnewswire· 2025-05-27 13:00
Core Insights - Whirlpool brand has launched the Spin&Load Rack, a lower-level dishwasher rack designed for inclusivity, allowing easier access for individuals with disabilities [1][2][3] - The product was developed in collaboration with the United Spinal Association and Whirlpool's employee resource group, AVID, emphasizing the importance of including voices from the disability community throughout the design process [3][4] - Spin&Load Rack is compatible with all 24" Whirlpool Corporation dishwashers manufactured after 2018 and will be available for purchase in June 2025 for $149.99 [5][6] Product Features - The Spin&Load Rack features a 360-degree spinning design, enhancing accessibility and reducing the need for users to reach or reposition themselves while loading and unloading dishes [2][4] - The product includes simplified packaging for easy unboxing, designed to be opened with one hand [2][4] Market Position - Whirlpool Corporation is positioned as a leading home appliance company, with a focus on human-centered innovation and inclusivity in product design [7] - In 2024, the company reported approximately $17 billion in annual sales, with a significant portion generated in the Americas [7]