Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Risk Assessment • PDF Accessibility • VPATs (Voluntary Product Accessibility Template)

Universal Design

Term from Accessibility Consulting industry explained for recruiters

Universal Design is an approach to creating products, buildings, and spaces that can be used by everyone, regardless of their age, ability, or status. Think of it as designing things to be user-friendly for all people from the start, rather than adapting them later. This could mean anything from creating websites that work well for people with visual impairments to designing buildings with easy access for both wheelchair users and parents with strollers. It's different from basic accessibility because it aims to create solutions that work for everyone, not just people with specific needs. Other terms that mean similar things are "inclusive design" or "design for all."

Examples in Resumes

Led implementation of Universal Design principles in corporate office renovation project

Created employee training programs on Universal Design and accessibility best practices

Applied Universal Design concepts to improve customer experience across digital platforms

Conducted Universal Design audits for public spaces and recommended improvements

Typical job title: "Universal Design Consultants"

Also try searching for:

Accessibility Consultant Inclusive Design Specialist Universal Design Expert Accessibility Specialist Design for All Consultant Accessibility Designer Universal Access Consultant

Where to Find Universal Design Consultants

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you implement Universal Design principles in a large-scale project with budget constraints?

Expected Answer: Should discuss prioritizing essential features, cost-effective solutions, and demonstrating return on investment through increased usability for all users. Should mention involving stakeholders early and planning for long-term benefits.

Q: How do you stay current with Universal Design trends and regulations?

Expected Answer: Should mention professional organizations, continuing education, following accessibility guidelines updates, and participating in industry conferences and workshops.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Can you explain the difference between Universal Design and basic accessibility compliance?

Expected Answer: Should explain that Universal Design goes beyond minimum accessibility requirements to create solutions that work for everyone, not just those with specific needs, and provides examples of this approach.

Q: How do you evaluate a space or product for Universal Design principles?

Expected Answer: Should describe assessment methods, common checkpoints, user testing approaches, and how to document findings and recommendations.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the seven principles of Universal Design?

Expected Answer: Should list and briefly explain: equitable use, flexibility, simple and intuitive use, perceptible information, tolerance for error, low physical effort, and size and space for approach and use.

Q: How would you explain Universal Design to a client who's never heard of it?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the concept in simple terms, using everyday examples like automatic doors or adjustable-height desks that benefit everyone.