Fundamentals of Visual Communication and Accessibility

The Importance of Universal Design in Visual Media 

Universal Design is fundamental in Visual Communication. This type of Design is critical in every environment and has no limits. It increases accessibility and usability for users while promoting inclusion and diversity and preventing exclusion. It applies in many dimensions, such as architecture, product development, digital media, and the education sector (Universal Design—The Key for Inclusion and Accessibility by Rikke Damkjær Moen).

Universal Design is fundamental to Visual Communication because, as its name suggests, it seeks to create products, services, and environments for everyone and that are usable by all people, regardless of age, gender, ability, or social status. This type of design plays a fundamental role in any environment and has no limits. It increases accessibility and usability for users, while promoting inclusion and diversity, and preventing exclusion.

It recognizes the diversity of human abilities and preferences, seeking functional solutions that benefit all members of society without the need for adaptations or specialized designs. For example, Microsoft offers inclusive services that can be applied to the visual medium, thus highlighting diversity to create accessible content (Microsoft Design. (n.d.). Inclusive Design).