Inclusive Design vs Universal Design: What’s the Difference?

Inclusive Design and Universal Design both aim to create environments that work for as many people as possible. But they approach the challenge from slightly different angles.

Universal Design is about creating one solution that works for everyone, as far as possible, without the need for adaptation. The term originated in architecture and product design, and was later formalised in principles developed by Ron Mace and the Center for Universal Design in the 1990s. Think of ramps that blend into the landscape, lever handles instead of knobs, or signage readable to all without additional explanation. Universal Design strives for simplicity, flexibility, and accessibility from the outset. Its strength lies in its broad usability—design that avoids exclusion altogether.

Inclusive Design, by contrast, recognises that “one size fits all” often doesn’t. Rather than creating a single solution for the widest group, Inclusive Design focuses on understanding and addressing specific needs, particularly those of people at the edges—users often overlooked by standard design processes. It’s not about designing for everyone at once, but rather including more people by intentionally considering diverse perspectives. For example, a wayfinding strategy that accommodates neurodivergent users by reducing visual clutter, or a transport interface that supports low-literacy users, is rooted in Inclusive Design.

A key difference lies in process. Inclusive Design is iterative and people-centred. It involves engaging with real users—particularly those who are often excluded—through co-design, testing, and feedback loops. Universal Design, while also people-centred, is more focused on applying established principles to prevent exclusion in the first place.

You can think of Universal Design as designing a door that works for all, while Inclusive Design asks who’s struggling with the door today, and why? One starts with a philosophy of universal usability. The other starts with specific people, specific barriers, and adapts accordingly.

Both have their place. Universal Design sets the foundation for accessibility. Inclusive Design builds on that, pushing us to go further—questioning assumptions, uncovering bias, and designing with empathy.

In a wayfinding context, Universal Design might result in clear signs at the right height, with legible fonts and good colour contrast. Inclusive Design asks who still might struggle—and introduces solutions like dual coding for people with cognitive impairments, or spatial layouts that support intuitive navigation without relying on language or reading ability.

Ultimately, it’s not about choosing one approach over the other. It’s about using both—starting with broad usability, and expanding inclusivity through deeper, user-informed insight. Together, they create environments that don’t just function for more people, but genuinely work better for everyone.