Flexibility in use is one of the principles of universal design, which makes goods and products accessible to many people. This article will outline some examples of flexibility in use.
Flexibility in Use
Flexibility in use means that people have choices about how they use a product or space. For example, people can use self-service kiosks designed with accessible features in many ways, including:
- Audio output
- Speech input
- Tactile keyboards
- Touch screens
Most people will not use all of these possible methods of operating the kiosk. However, a variety of options allows each person to select the methods that works best for them.
Similarly, products and spaces should be easy for both left-handed and right-handed people to use. For instance, most scissors are made either for right-handed or left-handed people. In contrast, other cutting implements are equally functional for either left-handed or right-handed people.
Furthermore, products and spaces should be designed to help people be more accurate and precise. For example, adjustable office chairs allow people of different heights to sit comfortably. However, if people cannot also adjust their desks, they are forced to sit at awkward angles. As a result, they may strain to see their screens, or make typing errors. On the other hand, adjustable desks allow people to work in positions that are not only comfortable, but promote accuracy and precision. For instance, people are more likely to make accurate, precise movements as they work at their desks if they can easily:
- See their screens
- Reach their keyboards, mice, or other input devices
- Change positions, such as from sitting to standing
Finally, people should be able to use products and spaces at different speeds. For instance, people may need to rest frequently while moving through a space, such as an indoor or outdoor path. Benches placed along routes or paths give people the chance to rest and move through the space at their own pace.