Unlocking Breakthrough Results with Universal Design

by Oct 22, 2024

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Ever feel like small obstacles are slowing down your team?

Whether it’s a tech issue, a miscommunication, or someone not having the right tools, these little hiccups can add up fast—especially in industries where speed is everything. The good news? You can see results with Universal design because it offers a powerful solution.

It’s not just about accessibility; it’s about creating a workspace where everyone can perform at their best. Whether you’re in tech, finance, or healthcare, universal design ensures your team can keep pushing forward without getting bogged down by preventable delays.

Results with Universal Design: Boosts Collaboration and Decision-Making

When you’re moving fast, the last thing you need is someone on your team falling behind because they can’t access the right tools. Miscommunication and lack of accessibility can slow even the best teams. Universal design clears these roadblocks by ensuring that everyone has what they need to fully engage in meetings, collaborate on projects, and contribute to decision-making.

By designing meeting spaces with accessible, adjustable features—like ergonomic furniture and user-friendly tech—universal design helps teams communicate better and make decisions faster. No more waiting for people to catch up or troubleshoot tech issues.

Did you know? Teams that communicate well can increase their productivity by 25%, while 86% of workplace failures come from poor collaboration.

Removing Friction Points for Maximum Efficiency

It’s not just about big disruptions. Sometimes, it’s the small things—like a lack of flexible meeting space, poor access to information, or bad lighting—that really slow your team down. Universal design tackles these everyday friction points by making sure that every detail of your workplace is optimized for efficiency.

Companies like Google have mastered this. They continuously enhance work environments by addressing minor obstacles that can create delays. Whether it’s creating better ways to share information or redesigning meeting rooms so everyone has a seat at the table, universal design helps teams stay focused and productive.

Thriving in High-Stakes Environments

In industries where every second counts—like finance, aerospace, or technology—even small delays can have huge consequences. Universal design ensures that every team member can access the tools and spaces they need, keeping everyone working at their peak, no matter the pressure.

Take NASA, for example. Their newly launched Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) Strategic Plan is aimed at removing barriers to innovation and collaboration, ensuring their teams can work efficiently in even the most high-pressure environments.

Fun fact: Companies with strong accessibility practices are 28% more profitable, according to a 2020 study by Accenture. Accessibility isn’t just ethical—it’s smart business.

Universal Design: The Foundation of Better Teamwork

At the end of the day, your team will see results with universal design. Universal design makes everything smoother—better teamwork, quicker decisions, and fewer delays. When everyone has what they need to contribute fully, your team runs like a well-oiled machine.

As we close out National Disability Awareness Month, now’s the time to consider how universal design can unlock your team’s full potential. Ready to boost collaboration and productivity? Let’s chat about how you can make your workplace more inclusive. Together, we’ll create a space where every team member can thrive.

Andrew D. Houghton

Andrew D. Houghton

President, Disability Inclusion Solutions

Nationally Recognized Accessibility Expert. Creating Innovative Disability Inclusion Solutions. Certified DOBE.

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